When you think of Spanish wine, names like Rioja and Ribera del Duero probably come to mind. But tucked into the hills and valleys of Eastern Spain are hidden wine regions steeped in history, natural beauty, and exciting local grape varieties.
If you’re looking for authentic flavors and off-the-beaten-path adventures, these four wine regions near Valencia— Xàtiva, Sierra de Espadán, Requena, and Jumilla — belong at the top of your list.
Xàtiva Wine, Castles, and Citrus Valleys
Often overlooked by wine tourists, Xàtiva is known for its dramatic hilltop castle and ties to the Borgia family. But the fertile lands not far from this historic city are also home to small wineries and ancient vineyard plots nestled among orange groves.
You’ll find small-scale winemakers reviving native grapes, working organically and with a strong sense of tradition. Wines here often blend freshness with Mediterranean warmth.
What to do:
Visit the Castillo de Xàtiva for panoramic views.
Try artisan cheeses and olives paired with local red blends.
Sierra de Espadán – Nature-Infused Wines from the Mountains
Located in the province of Castellón, Sierra de Espadán is a lush, green mountain range dotted with cork oak forests and medieval villages. The wines here reflect the rugged landscape: wild, aromatic, and full of character. This area is buzzing with natural winemakers and independent producers.
Why visit:
Taste local wines in Almedijar.
Explore organic and biodynamic projects.
Hike the trails and finish with a glass of wine and artisan cheese.
Requena – A Bobal Renaissance
A historic town west of Valencia, Requena has long been associated with Cava and the red grape Bobal — once relegated to bulk wine but now enjoying a serious comeback. Winemakers here are producing high-altitude reds that are juicy, fresh, and complex.
You’ll find modern cellars alongside ancient cave-aged wines, and more recently, boutique producers focused on organic viticulture and minimal intervention.
Don’t miss:
Touring cave cellars near the old town.
Tasting Bobal reds with traditional DOP Requena sausages.
Visiting family-run micro-wineries in the countryside.
Jumilla – Bold Wines from Ancient Vines
Heading south into Murcia, Jumilla is an arid land of limestone soils, blazing sun, and old bush vines. The star here is Monastrell, producing bold, structured reds with surprising finesse.
What’s exciting is the number of wineries embracing low-intervention techniques, biodynamics, and dry farming — resulting in wines that speak clearly of their place.
Why you’ll love it:
Exceptional value wines with depth and ageability.
Jumilla’s vineyards aromatic wines.
Combine with a castle tour or scenic countryside picnic.
The Real Spain in a Glass
These four Spanish wine regions — Xàtiva, Sierra de Espadán, Requena, and Jumilla — offer more than just excellent wines. They invite you to slow down, connect with local makers, and discover landscapes that have shaped Spain’s viticultural soul for centuries.
Whether you’re sipping natural Garnacha under a mountain sunset, walking ancient vines in Requena, or enjoying Monastrell beside a medieval castle, you’ll experience the true spirit of Spanish wine — raw, rooted, and unforgettable.
