Spain is home to some truly wonderful indigenous grape varieties, with a wine making tradition that reaches back into antiquity to the times of the Phoenicians. The lineage and origin of many of these grape varietals is hard to determine with any certainty, although modern-day DNA analysis is helping to unpick some of the secrets of the Spanish vine. What is clear and undisputable about Spanish wine, is the uniqueness of the varieties, the personality of the regions and the wealth of enological traditions.

The following section provides an introduction to Spanish red and white grape varieties. We also outline the correct pronunciation, production locations within Spain, perfect food pairings and most importantly the aromatic and flavour profile that you can expect from the wine itself.