Córdoba: Sierra De Montilla Wine Tasting and Pairing

The Sierra de Montilla, situated in the heart of Córdoba, Spain, is home to a distinct winemaking tradition that’s ripe for discovery. Oenophiles and culinary enthusiasts can embark on a 1.5-hour tasting journey, sampling four exceptional wines alongside delectable local tapas. This immersive experience promises to unveil the region’s unique saline and almond-tinged profiles, all while exploring the winemaking process and the role of Albariza soils. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply curious, this tasting offers a captivating window into Córdoba’s rich viticultural heritage.

Key Points

• Experience a 1.5-hour private wine tasting in the Sierra de Montilla region, sampling four wines and four tapas for $38.21 per person.
• Explore the unique character of Fino and Amontillado wines from the region, defined by their saline and almond notes.
• Enjoy a gastronomic experience with expertly paired tapas that enhance the complexity of the wines.
• The tasting is led by an instructor fluent in both Spanish and English, ensuring accessibility for all participants.
• The wine tasting experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for private groups of at least 6 people, but not suitable for children under 18.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience Overview

Although this private wine tasting takes place in the scenic Sierra de Montilla region, the experience itself lasts only 1.5 hours.

For $38.21 per person, guests can sample four wines from this renowned area, including young, fresh whites and oxidatively aged varieties known for their saline and almond notes.

The tasting also includes four tapas thoughtfully paired to enhance the wines’ flavors.

Throughout the experience, the instructor, available in both Spanish and English, provides insight into the unique winemaking processes that define the character of these Montilla wines.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, and reservations can be made with no upfront payment.

Wines of Sierra De Montilla

The wines of Sierra de Montilla are renowned for their unique character, shaped by the region’s warm climate and distinctive albariza soils.

Visitors can sample a range of young, fresh whites and oxidatively aged wines like Fino and Amontillado. These wines are notable for their saline and almond notes, produced from the Pedro Ximénez grape variety.

The winemaking process in Sierra de Montilla is defined by flor and solera aging techniques, which give the wines their distinctive profile.

Guests can expect a complete gastronomic experience, with tapas carefully crafted to enhance the complexity of the wine selections.

Tasting Notes: Saline and Almond Profiles

Four distinct wines from the Sierra de Montilla region showcase the remarkable saline and almond profiles that define the local winemaking tradition.

This unique character stems from the region’s warm climate and distinct albariza soils:

1. A young, crisp white wine with subtle saline notes and hints of almonds.

2. A complex Fino sherry, aged under a layer of flor, exhibiting a harmonious balance of salinity and nuttiness.

3. An elegant Amontillado, further aged in the solera system, showcasing a robust almond aroma and a persistent saline finish.

Albariza Soils and the Pedro Ximénez Variety

Sierra de Montilla’s renowned wines owe their distinct character to the region’s unique albariza soils.

These chalky, white soils are especially well-suited for growing the Pedro Ximénez grape variety. The warm climate and albariza terroir impart the wines with saline and almond notes that define their signature profile.

The chalky, white albariza soils of Sierra de Montilla perfectly suit the Pedro Ximénez grape, imparting saline and almond notes in the wines.

These oxidatively aged wines, like Fino and Amontillado, showcase the exceptional quality of the Pedro Ximénez grape when cultivated in this distinguished appellation.

The unique winemaking process, relying on flor and solera aging techniques, further enhances the wines’ complex characteristics for a truly memorable tasting experience.

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Pairing the Tapas

Accompanying the wine tasting is a carefully curated selection of four tapas, expertly paired to enhance the complex flavors of the Sierra de Montilla wines.

The tapas are crafted to unlock the full potential of the wines, offering a complete gastronomic experience. The pairing includes:

1. A salty Manchego cheese that amplifies the saline notes in the Fino and Amontillado wines.

2. A delicate almond and honey cake that complements the almond and nutty flavors in the Pedro Ximénez.

3. A zesty lemon and herb-marinated white anchovy that cuts through the richness of the oxidatively aged wines.

The Winemaking Process: Flor and Solera Aging

As visitors discover the unique winemaking process behind the Sierra de Montilla wines, they’ll gain insight into the intricate flor and solera aging techniques that define these wines’ distinctive character.

The wines are aged under a layer of yeast called flor, which imparts nutty, saline notes. The solera system involves fractional blending, where new wines are introduced into a series of barrels containing older vintages. This slow, gradual process creates the wines’ complex, layered flavors.

The albariza soils and warm climate of Sierra de Montilla are crucial to producing these singular Sherry-style wines.

Language and Accessibility

The wine tasting experience is designed to accommodate a range of visitors.

The wine tasting experience is designed to accommodate a range of visitors.

The instructor is available to guide participants in both Spanish and English, ensuring everyone can fully engage with and understand the tasting.

The tastings are also wheelchair accessible, making the experience inclusive for all.

Plus, the tasting is ideal for private groups seeking an exclusive experience, with a minimum group size of 6 people.

However, the event isn’t suitable for children under 18 years of age.

1. Instructor available in Spanish and English

2. Wheelchair accessible

3. Ideal for private groups (min. 6 people), not suitable for children under 18

Group Size and Suitability

While the wine tasting experience is ideal for private groups, it requires a minimum of 6 people to book. The exclusivity of the tasting ensures an intimate and personalized experience, catering to those seeking a more tailored event.

The activity isn’t suitable for children under 18 years, as the focus is on appreciating the nuances of the Sierra de Montilla wines. With an English and Spanish-speaking instructor, the tasting is accessible to a wide range of guests.

Whether a corporate team or a group of friends, the wine tasting offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich winemaking heritage of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Nearby Restaurants or Cafes for Before/After the Tasting?

There are several nearby cafes and restaurants where guests can enjoy a meal before or after the wine tasting. These establishments offer a range of local cuisine to complement the wines sampled during the experience.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase the Wines Sampled?

Yes, participants can purchase the wines sampled during the private tasting. The instructor will provide information on how to order the highlighted wines from the Sierra de Montilla region to enjoy at home after the experience.

Can I Arrive Earlier or Stay Later Than the Scheduled 1.5 Hours?

The wine tasting lasts 1.5 hours and you can’t arrive earlier or stay later. However, you can purchase the wines sampled during or after the experience. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tasting?

There’s no formal dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, casual attire. The tasting takes place in a winery setting, so light, breathable fabrics are recommended to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for Booking the Experience?

There aren’t any specific discounts or promotions mentioned, but the experience does offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve your spot without upfront payment.

The Sum Up

The Sierra de Montilla wine tasting in Córdoba offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the region’s rich winemaking heritage. Visitors can savor the unique saline and almond profiles of renowned wines like Fino and Amontillado, expertly paired with delectable local tapas. With bilingual instructors, wheelchair accessibility, and suitability for private groups, this immersive experience provides a memorable journey into the world of Córdoba’s winemaking.

You can check availability for your dates here: