Coinciding with Mother’s Day, we propose these three getaways for the May 1 long weekend in the DO La Mancha, DO Rueda and DOCa Rioja. Three very different territories, but united by a common element: the vineyard as a landscape and way of life.
A perfect opportunity to surprise the person you love the most with a few days of disconnection, discover new territories and, of course, get closer to the world of wine from its origin.
High altitude vineyards and landscape of La Mancha
Castilla La Mancha is one of those destinations that surprise those who discover it for the first time. Far from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy areas, here time seems to flow with a different calm. Among open fields and infinite horizons, there are some of the highest altitude vineyards in the region.
One of the most interesting projects in the area is Finca Antiguawhere wine and nature coexist in balance. Located at an altitude of 900 meters above sea level, the property extends over 1,000 hectares, of which more than 400 are dedicated to vineyards, surrounded by Mediterranean scrubland and native fauna.
The visit can be completed with a route through some of the most interesting villages in the area. Belmonte, with its imposing medieval castle, Mota del Cuervo, famous for its windmills, or El Toboso, linked to the story of Don Quixote, are perfect stops to understand the spirit of La Mancha on the La Mancha Wine Route.
In addition, the local gastronomy is strong and authentic: migas, gachas manchegas, ratatouille or roast lamb are part of a traditional cuisine that pairs perfectly with the wines of the region.
Rueda: the heart of the verdejo
If you are looking for a getaway linked to the world of white wine, the Denomination of Origin Rueda, in the province of Valladolid, is an ideal option. This territory is known for the Verdejo variety, a grape that finds the best conditions to develop here.
The landscape of Rueda is characterized by large plains dotted with vineyards and pine forests, with wine-producing villages that have lived for centuries from the culture of wine. One example is Finca Montepedrosoa winery surrounded by 25 hectares of vineyards located at an altitude of 750 meters above sea level.
A getaway to the Rueda Wine Route can include visits to subway cellars, walks through the vineyards on horseback or by bike and tours of historic villages such as La Seca, known as the “capital of the verdejo”, Medina del Campo, home to the impressive Castillo de la Mota, or the historically important town of Tordesillas.
The experience is completed with a delicious Castilian gastronomy with character. Roast lamb, seasonal asparagus or artisan cheeses are some of the dishes that turn any meal into an authentic tribute to the culinary tradition of the area.
La Rioja: wine and towns with history
To speak of wine in Spain is inevitably to speak of Rioja, one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world. But Rioja is not only wine: it is also landscape, heritage and culture.
In the heart of the Rioja Alta is Finca Valpiedra, located in one of the most spectacular meanders of the Ebro River. The vineyard, surrounded by boulders and protected by the curve of the river itself, is an exceptional example of a wine-growing landscape.
From here you can explore some of the most emblematic places in the region. Haro, with its famous Barrio de la Estación, brings together some of the most important historic wineries in the country. Nearby are charming villages such as Briones or San Vicente de la Sonsierra, where time seems to have stopped between medieval streets and vineyards. Viewpoints, trails and even a ski resort… There are plans for the whole family available on the Rioja Alta Wine Route.
In addition, La Rioja is a first class gastronomic destination. Traditional restaurants, tapas bars and product cuisine turn each stop into a culinary experience.
Three destinations, one essence
DO La Mancha, DO Rueda and DOCa Rioja offer three different ways of approaching the world of wine. Castilla-La Mancha is dominated by the vastness of the landscape; Rueda by the freshness of the whites and the Castilian tradition; and Rioja by the history and prestige of one of the most renowned wine regions in the world.
A perfect plan to enjoy the long weekend of May with calm, good wine and the beauty of the landscapes that make it possible. Book your visits to Finca Antigua, Finca Montepedroso and Finca Valpiedra.
