Marbella with its 5-star dining and exotic cocktails, also happens to have an abundance of locally-produced fine wine, where traveling straight to the source is conveniently within an hours drive away. Many of these wines are ecological and renowned nationally and internationally for their award-winning flavours.
Article by Sophie Gatward-Wicks
Lucky for us, enjoying some of the richest cultural experiences that Spain has to offer is available right on Marbella’s doorstep. Drenched in history and heritage and surrounded by the stunning mountain ranges that give Marbella its unique microclimate, the region is able to successfully cultivate the many varieties of high-quality grapes using centuries old knowledge passed down through the generations.
Each of these wineries grant a unique perspective to get acquainted with the local winemaking traditions and culture in this enchanting part of Southern Spain, and once you visit one, you’ll want to see them all…
Bodega Cortijo Los Aguilares
Nestled in the Sierra de Las Nieves mountain range, at 900m in Serranía de Ronda, this vineyard with its centuries-old oaks and impressive view of the rock formations, creates a truly magical environment. Enjoy picnics under oak trees or try the bike rides through the pastures, with wine tasting at the heart of each experience. Their environmentally friendly approach to winemaking, and organic excellence with award-winning reds, matched with jaw-dropping scenery, gives this particular winery an edge that makes it an absolute must-visit!
Puente de la Ventilla, Ctra. Ronda Campillos, Km. 35 29400 Ronda, Malaga
Tel: (+34) 952 874 457
visita@cortijolosaguilares.com
https://cortijolosaguilares.com/
Bodega Doña Felisa
Another Ronda gem, this enchanting vineyard is well known in the wine scene due to its diverse range of delicious reds, whites, and rosés. With a wide selection of varieties: Tempranillo, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon to name but a few, you can learn all about the different plots and how their vines have adapted perfectly without the use of herbicides or any other product that is harmful to the environment. They don’t just offer day experiences either, but overnight stays too!
You can stay at this winery for a relaxed and peaceful getaway in one of their fully equipped suites (of which they have four), and truly immerse yourself in the tranquility of this dreamy location.
Bodega Doña Felisa Cordel del Puerto al Quejigal s/n,
29400 Ronda (Málaga)
Tel: (+34) 606 945 937
info@bodegadonafelisa.com
bodegadonafelisa.com
Bodegas Morosanto
Perhaps the most notable winery in Ronda due to its sheer unbeatable heritage. Its history dates all the way back to 1485, where the winery was founded during the reconquest of Ronda. Two thousand years later, Morosanto still stands, offering three main collections of wines, all with fascinating histories, namely the Céspedes, Morosanto and Almocabar. The culturally rich estate also offers customisable experiences where you can design your own bespoke wine-tasting day.
Bodegas Morosanto, Carretera Arriate-Setenil, Km 1.6, 29400 Ronda, Málaga
Tel: (+34) 662 671 111
enoturismo@bodegasmorosanto.com
bodegasmorosanto.com
Bodega GarcÍa Hidalgo
Known for its Sherry’s, and adding to Rondas impressive wine portfolio, the vineyard straight out of a movie-scene is situated in the beautiful Guadalcobacin valley, named after the river which irrigates the vineyard. Their offer of experiences range from guided tours to bespoke wine tasting stays, either in the winery apartment or double ensuite-rooms.
We highly recommend their offer of homemade bread and ecological olive oil, paella and desert! Their option of wine tasting paired with typical ronda tapas is also a great way to experience the seasonal produce in the local area.
Bodega Garcia Hidalgo, A-6300, 38, 29400 Ronda, Málaga
Tel: English (+34) 622 879 005 or. Spanish (+34) 600 48 72 84
info@bodegasgarciahidalgo.es
Bodegasgarciahidalgo.com
Bodegas Málaga Virgen
This well-established winery is located in Mollina, with an impressive history and cultural contribution to the culinary heritage of the Málaga region. The family-founded winery holds over 130 years of history, and is now being run by the fourth generation, with the fifth integrating little by little. Their famous wine: Málaga Virgen is the leading brand and product in the national market, and their Sol de Málaga wine is the leading brand in the international market. Both are absolutely delicious, but somehow taste even better when sipped at the source of their creation!
Finca Vistahermosa Autovía A-92, KM 132. (camino de servicio). Fuente de Piedra, 29520. Málaga
Tel: (+34) 952 319 454
info@bodegasmalagavirgen.com
bodegasmalagavirgen.com
Did you know?
Harvesting grapes at night, known as “night harvesting,” helps preserve grape quality by slowing down enzymatic activity which maintains aromatic compounds, reduces oxidation, and ensures a fresher taste. Plus, it’s a win-win for vineyard workers, providing a cooler and more comfortable environment. So, when it comes to picking grapes, some winemakers prefer to make it a moonlit affair!
Bodegas Málaga Virgen swears by the Night Harvest, stating that at night, the low temperatures allows the sugar levels of the grapes to be more stable with better acidity levels and an overall better quality. The strain suffers less when its clusters are harvested, and makes it strong for the following campaign. 🌓🌔🌕
