Exploring Spain’s Trendy Wines: Must-Try Bottles from Across the Regions.
Spanish wines are undeniably cool because they combine centuries of tradition with an adventurous, modern edge. From vibrant sparkling wines like Cava and Txakoli, to rich reds from Priorat and Ribera del Duero, and elegant whites like those from Rías Baixas and Ribeiro, there’s always something exciting and unique to discover. They reflect the diversity of Spain’s regions, climates, and winemaking philosophies, making them as dynamic as the country itself.
It was absolutely fantastic to see Amaya Cervera from the Spanish Wine Lover Blog in Sicily, sharing her handpicked favorites. Her insight and passion for Spanish wines are unmatched, and it was inspiring to learn how she highlights the best of what Spain has to offer. Moments like these remind me why I love wine so much—it’s about connection, discovery, and storytelling.
Last week, I had the incredible pleasure of attending Taormina Gourmet on Tour in Sicily, a magical experience that left me inspired and excited about wine in ways I hadn’t anticipated. From the breathtaking views of Sicily’s rolling hills to the captivating masterclasses, this event was truly one for the books.
As a wine enthusiast and professional, I always look forward to opportunities like these, but this one felt extra special. Being invited to such a prestigious event was an honor, and it was amazing to immerse myself in the rich wine culture of Sicily while connecting with like-minded people who share my passion.
One of the standout moments was a masterclass led by Amaya Cervera, the brilliant owner, editor, and writer behind Spanish Wine Lover. Her selection of forward-thinking Spanish wines offered a glimpse into the incredible diversity of wines across Spain, beyond what I typically drink in Catalonia.
As someone who lives and breathes wine tourism through my company, Wine Fantasy Barcelona, I felt right at home among passionate wine lovers, winemakers, and sommeliers. Being invited to this prestigious event felt like a huge honor, and I soaked in every moment, especially the opportunity to connect with the amazing wineries and people of Sicily.
One of the standout moments was the tasting led by the incredible Amaya Cervera, owner, editor, and blogger behind Spanish Wine Lover. If you don’t follow her work, you’re missing out! She’s insightful, forward-thinking, and has a way of making every sip of wine tell a story. Her selection of Spain’s most exciting and trendy wines was nothing short of inspirational, and her expertise reminded me of why I’m so passionate about this industry.
The Wines That Stole the Show
Here’s a rundown of the wines that made me fall in love all over again with the vibrant diversity of Spanish wine:
Izar-Leku 2019 – A sparkling gem from Cantabria, crafted by the famous Rioja winery Artadi, known for breaking away from DOQ restrictions to create wines true to their vision. This blend of Hondarrabi Beltza and Hondarrabi Zuri shines with its vibrant energy, fine bubbles, and notes of green apple, pear, and minerality. A true trendsetter and a must-try for sparkling wine lovers.
Vino Mein, Val de Avia – From DO Ribeiro, this wine by Emilio Rojo is a herby, textural delight made from Treixadura grapes grown on granite soils. With 12 months on the lees and the influence of the Atlantic climate, it’s a sophisticated white wine with depth and character.
La Santa Úrsula, 2021 – Created by the innovative team at Envínate, this wine reflects their philosophy of crafting wines that speak to their origins. Made from vineyards in Tenerife, it’s gaining traction for its purity, volcanic minerality, and unique flavor profile.
Villa de Corullón 2022
This elegant and enveloping wine from Bierzo is crafted from steep, slate-rich slopes that blend Mediterranean warmth with Atlantic freshness. Made with 93% Mencía and small percentages of Jerez, Alicante Bouschet, and Gran Negro, it offers silky textures, vibrant freshness, and pronounced minerality. Described by Álvaro and Ricardo Pérez Palacios as “full of magic and beauty,” the 2022 vintage is a true reflection of Bierzo’s unique terroir.Frontonio La Cerqueta
This artisanal Garnacha from Aragón is as cool as it gets! Crafted by Master of Wine Fernando Mora, it’s made from 75-year-old vines grown sustainably on stunning slate-rich slopes at 630 meters altitude. Traditional winemaking techniques—like foot treading and fermenting with native yeasts—combine with a 14-month aging in foudres to create a wine that’s vibrant, complex, and packed with character. Produced in small batches and aged in a cave, it’s a true gem celebrating the heritage of Aragón’s nearly forgotten vineyards.Los Yesares 2022
An eco-friendly gem from D.O. Jumilla, Los Yesares 2022 is a 100% Monastrell crafted by the innovative Bodegas Cerrón, rooted in the winemaking traditions of Murcia since 1895. Sourced from high-altitude (920m) vineyards planted in 1942 on limestone soils enriched with flint and marine fossils, this wine embodies its unique terroir.Fermented with native yeasts in open barrels, with a touch of stems (15-20%) and a 50-day maceration, it matures for 12 months in used French oak. The result is a vibrant, fruit-forward Monastrell with subtle spice, fine tannins, and a refreshing, long finish. A perfect homage to Jumilla’s heritage and its biodiverse landscape, Los Yesares is ideal for pairing with red meats or savoring on its own.
Mesquida Mora D’es Monjos 2022
From the stunning island of Mallorca, Mesquida Mora D’es Monjos 2022 is a unique and vibrant expression of Mediterranean winemaking. Crafted by Barbara Mesquida, this wine reflects her philosophy of biodynamic and ecological farming, where respect for the land and vines takes center stage. The grapes, grown on calcareous soils with low yields, capture the essence of their terroir. Expect a beautifully aromatic profile with notes of citrus, Mediterranean herbs, and a touch of minerality. This wine embodies the spirit of Mallorca: fresh, authentic, and full of character.Antonio de la Riva - Macharnudo La Riva Vino de Pasto
This exceptional Palomino Fino wine hails from the iconic Jerez region and offers a pure, unfortified expression of the grape. Grown in the prized Macharnudo Alto vineyard, with its famed albariza soils, this wine is a stunning example of the historic “vino de pasto” style—crafted to showcase the natural elegance and complexity of the Palomino grape. With 14.5% alcohol, it combines bright acidity with nuanced flavors of dried fruit, chamomile, and saline minerality. Antonio de la Riva’s dedication to reviving traditional winemaking methods shines through in every sip of this refined and expressive white.
Cheers to Sicily and Beyond
A special shoutout goes to Taormina Gourmet on Tour for curating such an inspiring event. Sicily is more than a beautiful island; it’s a treasure trove of passionate winemakers and unforgettable wines. I’ve always loved Italian wine, and as an Italian Wine Ambassador through the Vinitaly Academy, I’m even more motivated to expand my tours to include this breathtaking region. Meeting the best wineries and people to host us made me realize that Sicily deserves a spot on my wine tour map.
I left the event feeling so grateful for the opportunity to learn, connect, and drink outstanding wines. As someone who loves wine tourism, events like this fuel my passion to keep sharing these experiences with the world.
Stay tuned for more as I continue to explore and share my favorite wines and stories from Spain, Catalonia, and beyond.
To read more about the wines, check out the links that I have put together in this list.
These links provide detailed information about each wine, including tasting notes, production methods, and purchasing options it is alwys good to do extra reading about popular wines, also check out the lables. I hope that you can try these wines in 2025.
Cheers,
Gabby
. Izar-Leku 2019
Vinissimus: https://www.vinissimus.com/en/cava/izar-leku-brut-vintage/
Vino Mein, Val de Avia
Decántalo: https://www.decantalo.com/en/vino-mein-val-de-avia.html
La Santa Úrsula 2021
Envínate Official Website: https://www.envinate.com/la-santa-ursula-2021
Villa de Corullón 2022
Descendientes de J. Palacios: https://www.descendientesdejpalacios.com/vinos/villa-de-corullon-2022
Frontonio La Cerqueta
Bodegas Frontonio: https://www.bodegasfrontonio.com/la-cerqueta
Los Yesares 2022
Bodegas Cerrón: https://www.bodegascerron.com/los-yesares-2022
Mesquida Mora D’es Monjos 2022
Mesquida Mora: https://www.mesquidamora.com/des-monjos-2022