Aragón is renowned for its high-quality wines, boasting five Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) including Calatayud, Campo de Borja, Cariñena, Somontano, and the Vino de Pago de Aylés. Additionally, there is one officially recognized product at the national level: Cava. It is produced in several regions beyond Aragon and embodies the local flavor. Cava is visually attractive, pleasing to the senses, and harmonious with food. The region boasts a variety of high-quality wines, with healthy vineyards spread across the territory.
As King Solomon said, ‘Wine makes the heart rejoice,’ and the inhabitants of the ancient villages along the four Aragonese wine routes – Cariñena, Somontano, Calatayud, and La Garnacha – seem to understand this perfectly. Within just a few square kilometers, it is a unique and exclusive experience in Europe to find a wide range of grape varieties, thanks to the diverse geographical features of the region.
Zaragoza is an excellent starting point for those looking to escape mass tourism and enjoy an exclusive experience following the region’s wine routes. One such route is the La Garnacha Wine Route, located just 60 km from the capital. Its easy accessibility makes it a very interesting option, reachable from Madrid or Barcelona in just over an hour by high-speed train.
The Campo de Cariñena Wine Route also known as the Stone Wine Route, features vineyards planted amidst ancient earth and stones, lending the wine a more intense aroma. Similarly, one can appreciate the versatility of the wines by visiting the Somontano Wine Route, nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees. Its latitude, altitude, and significant temperature variations contribute to the distinct fragrance of its flagship product.
The multicultural heritage of this Mudéjar land, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is evident in the fusion of Muslim and Christian styles. The Arabic translation of Mudéjar is ‘one who has been allowed to stay,’ inviting tourists to discover the exclusive wine routes. This fascinating legacy can be appreciated primarily through the towns along the Calatayud Wine Route. The Collegiate Church of Santa María de Calatayud and the churches of San Andrés and San Pedro de los Francos de Calatayud are among the most emblematic buildings reflecting this architecture.
It is noteworthy that the ancient and influential Kingdom of Aragon has left its mark on the streets of all the towns. In addition to the Aragonese legacy, visitors can also enjoy the influences of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.
The proximity of all the routes allows for exploration over a two-day trip, combining the best options and enabling tourists to experience the diversity of wine offerings. For instance, Cariñena is 55 km from Calatayud and 60 km from Borja in Garnacha. All of these towns are located within an hour of the Aragonese capital. It’s fascinating to consider that one can explore every corner of these villages without having to choose between one wine or another.
All routes offer scheduled buses with itineraries designed exclusively to visit the most prominent places, such as wineries for wine tasting, sampling the famous local cuisine, or having free time in the most picturesque villages. Visitors to the vineyards can sample a wide variety of grapes, such as Garnacha Tinta and Blanca, Tempranillo, and Cabernet. Each winery offers exclusive wine varieties that will astound the curious. Each route unveils numerous wineries and vineyards, making visitors feel like professional oenologists throughout their journey.
Undoubtedly, a wine tasting is the perfect excuse to visit this region overflowing with history and culture. Just as unity and fusion are integral to the scenery, so is the perfect pairing of wine with the region’s cuisine. A good glass of wine can inspire poetry in the heart, but when accompanied by culinary art, it becomes truly ecstatic. Local restaurants offer delicious tapas, pairing exquisite wines with dishes such as roasted kid, a variety of grilled meats, and recipes featuring asparagus, potatoes, cereals, and braised vegetables.
As King Solomon wisely expressed, wine gladdens the heart. Similarly, sports and movement can have the same effect, which is why the Wine Routes of Aragon continue to provide for their visitors. These Aragonese lands offer a unique blend of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, hiking along the Garnacha Route, or canyoning in Somontano. For those seeking a more peaceful experience, the area also boasts a top-notch golf course along the Calatayud Route.