With conditions perfect for producing some of the world’s best Cava and delicious Bobal, Utiel-Requena might be one of Spain’s best-kept secrets.
People visiting wine destinations in Spain often prioritize La Rioja and Ribera del Duero. While these are gorgeous, Utiel-Requena presents a quality that competes on the same level.
I recently spent a few days here and didn’t feel like leaving…
Here is what you need to know to enjoy this lovely wine escape.
Why Utiel-Requena Will Make You Happy
Meditation surrounded by wine fields, wine tasting matched with music, tours under the stars.
A private weekend getaway at a winery exclusively open for you and your friends or family. Celebrating your special day surrounded by dreamy views.
Enjoying authentic service that will make you feel at home, even if you just arrived.
Located a 45 min drive from Valencia, Utiel-Requena spoils you with unique experiences. As wine tourism is relatively new, you can have gorgeous places for yourself.
How Utiel-Requena Transformed From Low-Quality Bulk Production To World-Class Wine
While the Utiel-Requena region has been producing wines for over 2,500 years, the focus until quite recently used to be on bulk production.
The wineries I talk to confess that the quality wasn’t much to brag about back then.
In the 1980s, winemakers started to experiment with new elaboration methods to improve quality. Challenging the mindset of the time, which was all about volume at low cost.
What Utiel-Requena Represents Today
While the old reputation still shadows Utiel-Requena, it’s establishing its own identity on the market. The region has transformed into a community of innovative bodegas, that take pride in producing wine of the highest quality.
Modern facilities, replanted varieties, and winemakers that dare to experiment, are key factors behind the new Utiel-Requena. Far away from what it used to be, it charms the world with its authentic offering.
Extreme Weather Will Make
You Want To Refill That Glass
The temperature stretches from mild winter in Scandinavia (-10) to Dubai (40+ C) throughout the year in Utiel-Requena. It’s located about 700m above sea level, with some of the higher-altitude vineyards reaching 900m.
The variation in degrees, the proximity to the Mediterranean sea, and dry winds create extreme conditions ideal for (delicious) wine production.
Most wineries are focused on red wine, while white and rosé wine are being introduced. Requena is also one of the few areas that is allowed to produce Cava outside of the Cava Capital Penedès.
Grape Varieties In Utiel-Requena
The Bobal grape, a native red-wine variety, occupies over 75% of the vineyards in Utiel-Requena.
The Bobal wine here is delicate, with black-fruit aromas, and more-complex flavors after oak aging. You might, just as me, end up with it as one of your new favorites. Exciting blends, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo, will have you asking for more.
The authorized red varieties in Utiel-Requena are; Bobal, Tempranillo, Garnacha, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. The authorized white varieties are; Macabeo, Merseguera, Planta Nova (or Tardana), Sauvignon blanc and Chardonnay.
Unique Wineries and Wine Experiences in
Utiel-Requena That Deserve Your Attention
Here are a few wineries in Utiel-Requena that have contributed much to the development of the area through their innovation.
The majority offer unique experiences on-site, and all of them produce amazing wine.
Vera de Estenas: Small Pioneer
Winery Full Of Personality
Several locals in Requena recommend Vera de Estenas when I ask for a smaller, unique winery that really has impacted the area.
The owner and winemaker Felix tells me how it started with his dad, Francisco Martínez Bermell, who brought his expertise within exportation to Utiel-Requena in 1945.
Elected president of the International Wine Organization (OIV), and honorary president of the Spanish winemakers association, Francisco is considered one of Spain’s most influential winemakers.
In 1981, he founded the winery Casa de Don Ángel, now Vera de Estenas. He initiated the region’s transformational change from bulk wine exports, to a focus on the cultivation of high-quality bottled wines.
Experimentation Leading To New Standards
Felix has continued to challenge the standards in ways that change them. In 1998, he developed a mature Bobal, even though others warned that Bobal wasn’t suitable for aging. It was well-received on the market, and today it’s hard to imagine that it wasn’t a common practice a few years ago.
Vera de Estenas was also the first Valencian winery to cultivate grapes of different varieties. The team continues to innovate, combining tradition and modernity, without ever losing the expression of the land.
Wines at Vera de Estenas
As one of the few Pagos in the area, Vera de Estenas produces easy-to-drink young and aged wines under their own brands. While 70% of their production is Bobal, they also grow Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec.
Viña Lidón, an addictively delicious Chardonnay, becomes my favorite. It’s fruity, with tropical notes. Well-balanced, with a long after-taste. La Tardana De Estenas is intense in a good way, fruity, with higher acidity. The Casa Don Ángel Bobal is elegant, with notes of ripe fruit and wood. Careful, it contains 14,5 % of alcohol and is dangerously easy to drink.
Experience Vera de Estenas
Vera de Estenas recently introduced rooms. I spent one night at the winery and loved the experience. More details below under “Where to stay in Utiel-Requena.”
They offer regular visits with tastings. During harvest time, you can participate. The family also owns a unique, historical cave in the center of Requena. They’ve transformed it into this gorgeous venue, perfect for events. Think vertical tastings (starting with the first in 1998, until the most recent) with your group.
>> Learn More about the options and book your experience.
Torre Oria: Customer-Oriented
Innovation, The First Cava In The Region
Torre Oria, founded by the Oria de Rueda family, is one of the most prestigious wineries in the Valencia Region. They were first to elaborate Cava under the Appellation of Origin Cava outside of Penedés, and have been awarded The Best Cava in Spain several times. An incredible value-add to the region, which now produces 10 000 000 bottles of Cava a year.
Iván from their marketing team tells me how they started as a collective of well-educated families 120 years ago. In the 1980s, they optimized the winery for expansion, a first step towards the current business model.
Customer Satisfaction Brings In Results
Torre Oria has received attention for its concept of delighting the customer. More recently, sales have increased by 400%, from 3.5 to 14 million euros – in 5 years. Their pioneer approach has influenced Utiel-Requena in so many ways, that it’s hard not to be curious.
Best described as democratic and innovative, Torre Oria is always exploring how they better can serve their markets. Vinos de Cuento (Stories of Wine), with stories inspired by literature classics, was different from everything else on the market. The recently launched wine cocktail, catering to the Millennials, is another example of their ability to think new.
“80 Years” and “Viñedo Antiguo”, 2 of their exclusive wines, are produced with raw material from their vineyards that survived the phylloxera, older than 80 years.
A Beautiful History To Be Continued
We tour the stunning Torre Oria house, opened for partners and special private events only. Built in 1903 by Joseph Donderis, one of the most famous architects of the time, you feel the history as you enter. It’s impressive how well preserved it is.
While Torre Oria is a different business today, the core values are as strong. They continue to focus on customer satisfaction, innovation, and a balance between value and price. Their list of awards is never-ending, and it will be exciting to see what they will present next.
Experience Torre Oria
While Torre Oria used to be one of the most visited wineries in Utiel-Requena, attracting crowds from all over the world, it isn’t open for visits anymore.
Apart from enjoying its wine in the region, you can buy their wines in shops around Spain and in more than 40 countries around the world. Latin America, the US, Russia, and Scandinavia, just to mention a few. The wines are produced under the Denominations of Origin Valencia and Utiel-Requena, and the main brands Torre Oria and Marqués de Requena.
Tharsys: Complete Wine
Experiences In Rustic Surroundings
Rebeca, the Marketing Manager, and daughter of the founder of Tharsys welcomes me with a glass of Cava (Pago de Tharsys Brut Nature). It’s dry, fruity, with aromas that stay in a way that makes me want more. She knows how to treat visitors.
After having lived in different parts of the world, Rebeca moved back to Valencia 3 years ago. “The timing was right. I’m very happy that I took that decision,” she tells me. When looking out over the land at Tharsys, it is easy to understand why.
A Dream Of Introducing Great Cava
Her dad, Vincente García, came to Requena in the 80s after having lived in the north of Spain, with the mission to introduce great Cava to this part of the country.
Just as when it all started, curiosity, experimentation, and the passion for wine is what drives the team at Tharsys. This has resulted in innovative products such as “Tharsys Único”: a sparkling wine made from Bobal, and the Night Harvest of Albariño.
Rebeca shows me the different grapes, and how one can tell whether they are mature enough. We stop by the fields to enjoy a glass of wine, which tastes even better with these views.
Wines at Tharsys
I try a selection of different wines accompanied by local snacks. Their red Pago de Tharsys Argila is well-balanced and fresh, with hints of coffee, black- and blueberries. Their premium Cava, Tharsys Unico, is a refreshing sensation of fresh fruit and citrus.
The rosé Pago de Tharsys Vendimia Nocturna Garnacha balances acidity and maturity perfectly, with aromas of red fruit, strawberry, and raspberry.
Tharsys is one of the few bodegas that is allowed to produce liquors in Utiel-Requena. Crema de Oroju (similar to Baileys) and Liqor de café (coffee liquor) become my favorites.
I’m also spending the night in their charming hotel. Rustic, and comfortable. “You feel good here”, as Rebecca puts it, and I couldn’t agree more. Tharsys is a place to come back to, again, and again. More details about what it’s like to stay at Tharsys under “Where to stay in Requena-Utiel” below.
Experience Tharsys
Come here as a group, with your family or partner, for teambuilding with your job, or by yourself. The proximity to the wine fields opens up lots of possibilities. Think picnic tastings, meditation experiences, or watching a starry sky while surrounded by the wine fields.
Tharsys is a great option if you look for a complete wine experience, such as sleeping at a winery (and why wouldn’t you?). Its location makes it easy to explore the area.
> Learn More about the options and book your experience
Dominio de la Vega: Experience The Winner of The World’s Most Influential Wine Competition
The viticulturist family that founded Dominio de la Vega was brave from the start. Exploring the potential of the native Bobal variety further, even when people were questioning them. The founders were also among the first producers of Cava from Requena.
Gerardo Rodriguez Alayrach, the General Manager, takes us around the winery. Manual harvesting and grape selection is one of their ways to ensure quality. In 2017, their Bobal Finca del Beata was awarded “Best in Category” in the Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA). The world’s most influential wine competition.
The Oldest Vineyards In The Area
In 2019, they harvested the Losilla vineyards for the first time, the last of the estates they have acquired. Over 114 years old, it’s still not clear what wine will come out from it.
Although focused on Bobal, Macabeo, and Garnacha, Dominio de la Vega also cultivates Chardonnay, Cabernet-Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc. “Many think we only produce red wine,” says Gerardo. Their exclusive Cava, and several of their still white wines, have taken home many awards.
Wines at Domino de la Vega
We try the Bobal en Calma. It’s fresh and easy to drink, with intense aromas of red fruits, vanilla, toasted and spicy notes. The Bobal Paraje Tornel, which James Suckling has described as the best red Bobal in Spain, is unique. It got the platinum medal at the 2018 Decanter World Wine Awards and 96 points in the Repsol Guide. Their Brut Reserva Especial 2015 is well-balanced and round, with a sweet aroma of vanilla and fresh fruit.
The little museum on-site lets you travel in time and see how the winery got to where it is today. Apart from courage, professionalism, perseverance, and humility are a few of the values that have characterized Dominio de la Vega from the start.
Dominio de la Vega invests in research, to improve the quality of wine in the world. Zénit-Demèter (2008-2012) focused on the effects of climate change on the vineyards, and CavaWinner (extended until 2022) which aims to investigate how to further differentiate Spanish Cava at an international level, are just two examples of recent projects.
Experience Dominio De La Vega
Dominio De La Vega offers tours of the winery with tastings, which can be complemented with a pre-arranged lunch at a nearby restaurant. You can also combine your visit with a stop at the gorgeous olive farm Oli Oli (more about Oli Oli below).
Dominio De La Vega host several weddings every year, and is the perfect venue for company/group events, where they will be able to personalize every detail for you. More information about their special events.
Chozas Carrascal: Stunning Views,
Elegance, and Unique Flavors
Impressive is what comes to mind when arriving at Chozas Carrascal. María José, the founder’s granddaughter, is in charge of the operations, while her brother, Julián, is the oenologist.
Their family fell in love with the land and bought it in 1990. 2 years later, after having studied the environment, they implemented a cultivation plan and started to incorporate the different varieties. In 2002 the winery was built, with every detail taken into consideration to facilitate agile production.
It’s functional and elegant, with lots of light. The lobby is full of art from local talent, and one of the many ways that Chozas Carrascal shows off their personality.
Inspired by the environment, Chozas Carrascal learns by observing, and adapt their elaboration processes to optimize each wine. Quality, cleaning, and innovation are the main priorities. In collaboration with the University of Valencia and Polytechnic Valencia, they regularly carry out studies for improvements in different areas.
Wines At Chozas Carrascal
We enjoy a local lunch in one of the dining rooms in the family’s house, paired with their different wines. It feels like visiting a good friend.
Chozas Carrascal produces red, rosé, white, Cava, and sweet wines. Las 8, made out of 8 varieties (Bobal, Monastrell, Garnacha Tinta, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Merlot) that perfectly comes together, end up as my favorite. It’s intense, unique, and elegant at the same time, with hints of chocolate, vanilla, and café.
Their red Cabernet Familiar from 2016, which is harvested manually, is also delicious with flavors of blackberries. It’s easy to drink and goes perfectly with heavier dishes.
While Chozas Carrascal exports a significant percentage abroad, they are one of the few wineries in the area that also is focused on growing the national market. Come here for unique wines, personal services, and gorgeous property in elegant surroundings.
Experience Chozas Carrascal
The best way to experience Chozas Carrascal is on a complete Wine Tour Experience, where you will get to explore the facilities and taste their wines. Even if the wine always will be the main focus, Chozas Carrascal also produces addictingly good olive oil and beauty products, which you can buy on-site.
In Valencia, they have a wine spa, which I’ve to check out next time I’m around.
>> Learn more and book your experience at Chozas Carrascal
Bodega Vegalfaro: Organic,
Authentic and Down-To-Earth
A man casually welcomes us and asks if we would like to join him on the wine field before his colleague, who we’re supposed to meet, comes down. Why not? It’s 9 am, and without introducing each other, he leads the way to the grapes. He stops regularly, excited, to talk about the different terroirs and the specifics about this year’s harvest.
As we come up again, his colleague is waiting. “So I see you’ve met our founder Rodolfo.”
The ambiance at Bodegas Vegalfaro is charming and down-to-earth. Family-run, Rodolfo and his dad are active out on the fields every day. They have developed a unique, personal wine style, built upon completely organic practices. Tradition comes together with innovation, in the search for wine that perfectly balances the expression of the land.
Wines At Vegalfaro
Vegalfaro produces wines in three Denominaciones de Origen: D.O.P. Pago de Los Balagueses, D.O., Utiel-Requena, and D.O. Cava. All are certified Organic by the European Union. After a tour of the facilities, we try some of the highlights.
Presented under brands catering to different customer groups, each one with its unique story. Capracia means “the land of the goats,” and serves as a tribute to the region’s original winemaking pioneers, and a time when wild goats used to run free. The Capricia Cava is dry and refreshing, with aromas of apple, pear and some hints of lemon. The ruby-red Bobal-Merlot is intense, but fresh, with red-fruit and berries flavor.
The Rebel.lia originates from Rodolfo’s past as a bass guitarist in a popular local rock band. The red made of Tempranillo and Garnacha is well-balanced and fruity, think cherries, plums, and blackberries.
One of Spain’s Most Elite Vineyard Sites
The Balagueses is classified as D.O. Vino de Pago, a prestigious appellation so far only granted to 17 of Spain’s most elite vineyard sites. The elegant Syrah is creamy, complex and intense, of red and black mature fruit. A well-balanced wine with a fine finish.
Visit Vegalfaro to experience the passion of the team first-hand, and to try unique organic products that are setting a high quality standard in the region.
Experience Bodega Vegalfaro
Vegalfaro offers complete tours of the winery, which includes a tasting of 3 wines and the traditional “bollo (bun) de Requena”. They also organize brunches, lunches, and special events at the winery for groups of at least 10 people.
>> Learn more and book your experience at Vegalfaro
Bodegas Hispano+Suizas: The
Most Exclusive Winery In The Area
Innovation, traditional viticulture, and marketing expertise come together at Bodegas Hispano+Suizas. Named after the origins of the partners Rafael, Pablo and Marc, it’s a very personal project focused on high-quality wine for clients looking for elegant, unique, and accessible wine experiences.
The concept at Bodegas Hispano+Suizas marries music with wine, the owners’ biggest passions.”It is like every bottle is a composition” explains Estefanía, who’s in charge of Marketing. Every wine has a Latin name, representing expressions used in classical music.
“The goal is simple; to create
unique masterpieces where every detail matters”
Originally built in 1905, the winery was restored in 2009. Still with its original facade, the space is elegant, full of light, combining rustic, traditional style, with modern elegance.
Most of the production processes are manual. For their Cava, every step is.
Bodegas Hispano+Suizas only work with new barrels and produce a volume of approximately 140. 000 liters per year. While this may increase slightly, the goal isn’t to become much bigger. It wouldn’t allow them to maintain their exclusive business model, where every single detail is planned to perfection. The corks are exclusive and cost 1 euro each, while the paper on top of the bottles has their logo inside, just to give you an idea.
Wines at Bodegas Hispano+Suizas
Bodegas Hispano+Suizas cultivate 6 varietes, and were the first to introduce Pinot Noir Rosé in the area. 75 % of their customers are national, which is uncommon in Utiel-Requena, but naturally easier with this volume. Outside of Spain, the US, Switzerland, and the UK are the biggest markets.
We try the Cava which has received most awards, and by many been described as the best Cava in the world. It’s incredible. Easy to drink, not too fizzy, with a pretty color.
The Bobal, Bobos Finca Casa La Borrachas, is perfect for those who like and know their wines. It’s complex, with hints of ripe fruit, and wood, with a balsamic toasted background. The Bassus is a wine suitable for even those who say that they don’t like wine. They will like this one. With aromas of French oak, cherry, cassis, and liquorices, you just want more. It’s easy to drink and got awarded “The Best Pinot Noir In Spain” in 2019.
Different from everything else, with incredible wines, Bodegas Hispano+Suizas is well-worth your time.
Experience Bodegas Hispano+Suizas
Bodegas Hispano+Suizas offers 3 plans: the enology experience, the enology and gastronomy experience, or a complete option which includes a stay at their exclusive hotel. The 5-room hotel, which usually is booked, is available for private groups. When clients are staying, the winery is exclusively open for them only.
While Bodegas Hispano+Suizas is a relatively new project, their work is receiving notable recognition. Their wines are in exclusive restaurants such as Quique Dacosta and El Celler De Can Roca, both with 3 Michelin Stars.
Their Fiesta Blanca has made a name for itself, with 2000 people signing up every year to get one of the 300 exclusive spots.
> Learn more and book your experience at Bodegas Hispano+Suizas
Bodegas Coviñas: The Biggest
Winery In Utiel-Requena
With 41% of the total wine land in the area, Grupo Coviñas is the biggest winery in the Appellation of Origin (DO) Utiel-Requena. The focus is on quality wine to a fair price. “We want to be available to everyone,” says the marketing Manager Patricia.
Coviñas was established as a secondary cooperative in Requena in the 1960s. The winegrowers of the 10 cooperatives in the region came together to harness their sales strength and optimize the market availability of their quality wines.
Nowadays, Coviñas represent 3000+ farmers and sell more than any other brand from Requena. They export approx. 80% of their production to about 30 different countries, with Holland and Brazil being two of their most important markets.
Coviñas also has the widest distribution network in the Valencia region. It becomes apparent as we tour the high-tech facilities that include a 3,500 m2 storage vault with room for 10,000 oak casks, and a bottle cellaring area with a capacity of a million bottles.
Wines at Coviñas
While Bobal, Cencibel, and Macabeo are the most represented varieties, Coviñas also cultivate Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay. The majority is red wine, with only 10 % of the production being Cava. Veterum Vitium, created to be great but accessible, is one of the most representative red wines out of the many bottles to choose from.
Being the biggest in the area, Grupo Coviñas has played an important role in the local economy. Their wines are regularly recognized through awards such as Les Citadelles du Vin, Challenge International du Vin de Burdeos, Concurso Mundial De Brucella. A visit will give you a better understanding of the variation Requena offers, as well as the routines and the commercialization of one of the area’s most important wineries.
Experience Coviñas
Coviñas sell their wine online, so no matter where you are, you’ll be able to try some. You can also visit Coviñas in Requena. Learn more and contact Convinas directly to schedule your visit.
Murviedro: Hundreds of Wines, And
Different From Your Classical Winery Tour
As we arrive at Murviedro Bodega Histórica, our guide, Ana, tells us we won’t do a classic tour. “You know, taking you around the production facilities and telling you about how we make our wine. I know that people come here to drink wine. I won’t take you on a long tour without drinking.”
Originally from the area, Ana has been living outside Spain for years, most recently in Bordeaux. She returned to Requena 2 years ago to run this project. Bodega Historica is different from what we have seen before. The focus during the tour is more on the history and passion of the region, relating to the wine culture back in the days.
Ana brings us straight down the cave, which has an air humidity of 98 % and a maximum depth of 10 meters. While the original caves were used by muslimes, these have been the base for everything from refugee camps, to clubs, and wineries.
Wines at Murviedro
Murviedro offers more than 300 types of wines, catering to all kinds of people. La Zëda is one of their most important brands, which when it was introduced, was a significant contributor to the area. 80-90 % of the production is exported, with Belgium as one of the most important markets.
We end the tour with a tasting of 2 different wines. Sericis Cepas Viejas Monastrell 2015 is full-bodied, intense and elegant. Complex, with toasted flavours, it would be perfect with proper rice dishes or meat. The Audentia Sauvignon Blanc & Muscat is refreshing and fruity, without being sweet.
You can tell that Anna likes what she does and she wants to do things differently, straight to the point, covering topics you won’t find on your average wine tour.
Experience Murviedro
The visit at Murviedro Historica includes a tasting of 2 wines, as well as a bottle of one of their most representatives (and delicious) Bobal wines.
>> Learn more and schedule your visit
More Than Wine: Fantastic Views And Olive Oil That Will Give you Cravings At Oli Oli
I visit the gorgeous Olive Farm Oli Oli, which produces ecological, high-end extra virgin olive oil. Combining tradition with modern technology, they are focused on the 5 S; Sociedad, Sostenibilidad, Saber, Sabor y Salud (Society, Sustainability, Knowledge, Taste and Health).
I try their 4 different olive oils, while Maria, who runs Oli Oli, tells me about the many health benefits. So full of flavor, I love the spiciness. If you didn’t think it was possible to get cravings for olive oil, let me tell you, it is.
Don’t miss the winner of the prestigious EVO Olive Oil, the contest that promotes the highest quality extra virgin olive oil in the world. Participants must guarantee the traceability and origin of your products to participate
Experience Oli Oli
.
Oli Oli collaborates with several of the wineries and can organize everything from bachelorette parties to lunches, and special tastings. You will also see their oil in many restaurants in the area.
They offer tours on-site, where you will explore the modern facilities, try the oil, and enjoy the vistas.
They recently introduced rooms, which were in their final stages when I was visiting. I wouldn’t mind waking up surrounded by olive trees…
>> Learn More about the options and book your experience.
Where to stay in Utiel-Requena
Pago Tharsys: Rustic Hotel,
Tranquil Setting, Amazing Breakfast
Rustic and comfortable, it’s easy to be happy at Tharsys. The rooms are located just by their little lake, where you can have a seat and reflect upon life as the sun sets.
Go out to the wine field to watch the stars with the grasshoppers as the only sound, and start your day with an amazing home-made breakfast.
Tharsys is a place to relax. It’s amazing how it’s possible to have it almost for yourself. See above for more information about the winery.
>> Learn More and book your stay at Tharsys
Vera de Estenas: Family Winery That Will
Make You Feel Far Away From Everything
The newly introduced rooms at Vera de Estenas are simple and comfortable, with their own little balcony. It’s not a hotel, and there is no food on-site. but you have great options in the area. The lovely team will be happy to provide you with recommendations.
They also offer a 2-bedroom apartment.
It’s incredibly peaceful here. Have a bottle of wine at your balcony as you look out over the fields. Sleep like a baby, wake up like a new, more relaxed version of yourself. Watch the sunrise over the gorgeous surroundings, followed by a morning dip in the pool on-site.
See above for more information about the winery.
>> Learn More and book your stay at Vera de Estenas
Hotel Doña Anita: Elegant, Charming, With
Amazing Food, Right In The Histocial Town
Run by Antonio and his wife, nothing is a coincidence at this charming 14-room hotel. The couple has a past of many years in the travel industry and has thought about every single detail. From the design to the food, to the free coffee/tea service in the rooms. They understand travelers’ needs. While it’s a 2-star hotel, it exceeds the standard, with all the facilities such as TV, Wi-Fi, desk, shampoo, hairdryer, and hydro massage.
The name comes from the wife’s grandmother, who used to be a teacher for small girls in town. The building is beautiful, with tasteful decorations that balance tradition with modern comfort. The location is perfect, and the terrace made for enjoying life with a glass of wine.
A Gastronomy Paradise
The restaurant at Doña Anita is heaven for foodies. I try several dishes from the menu. Their different croquettes have just the right texture. The crispy artichokes stuffed with local sausage, and the Corvina Tartare on Wasabi and Sesame Vinaigrette are full of flavor. The pork cheeks prepared in red wine are so tender that you don’t want it to end.
I finish with the delicious brownie casero, perfectly moist, served with creamy vanilla ice cream. The breakfast is lovely, too. With fresh croissants and bread, served with cheese, ham, salami, marmalades, coffee, and juice, you’re all set for a good day.
>> Learn More and book your stay at Doña Anita
Hotel 1900 Casa Anita – Simple,
Comfortable, With Delicious Comida Casera
Hotel 1900 Casa Anita located in San Antonio de Requena, is simple and charming. With only 8 rooms, it’s managed by Ana, who also is a nurse. The building is from the 1900th century, has a cute patio, and used to be the house of a professor in town.
You don’t come here for any of the fancy extras. You come here to stay in a comfortable place with personal service sin frills. To relax, sleep well, and enjoy great comida casera. During weekdays, many regular workers are staying here.
Comida Casera Worth Coming Back For
Ana tells me how she always has been interested in hospitality and gastronomy. She cooks the food, which is a reason to come here alone. I try the Bacalao, el Morteruelo (a typical stew that is made with pork, spices and breadcrumbs), the Pimientos de piquillo rellenos de rape (stuffed peppers), the Croquetas, the meat stew, and the tart for dessert. Accompanied by the house wine and a strawberry shot.
“We want to have something for everyone. That’s why we have dishes for 40 euro, but also offer a menu for 9”, Anna explains. She is from Valencia. They specialize in rice dishes too, which isn’t common in the area. The breakfast is very simple, with strong, tasty coffee. I feel like I’m visiting a friend, who also happens to be a great chef – and that is a good feeling.
>> Learn More and book your stay at Hotel 1900 Casa Anita
Time To Experience This Authentic
Get-Away Before It Gets Crowded
While tourism is increasing, Utiel-Requena is, for now, less commercial in comparison with other wine regions in Spain. It still feels underrated, which I’m sure will change.
The exportation, the improved reputation of Bobal, the many awards, the great service, and a more educated audience are all helping to turn the world’s attention to this lovely wine escape. I’d love to go back, and there is a high probability that you will feel the same way, too.
Have you been to Utiel-Requena yet? What did you think? Let me know in the comments.
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