Alfàs del Pi
The Alicante wine region is divided into two contrasting zones. On one side you will find Vinalopó, which is located in the south-west, where the Monastrell grape thrives in the drought. On the other side you will find La Marina in the north, where the Moscatel grape is mainly planted due to the warm, humid climate.
Although the wines from Alicante are not as well-known as the wines from La Rioja – the province of Alicante has a rich history of producing wine. Fondillón, a sweet unfortified wine made from extra-ripe Monastrell grapes, is the most famous of all. It is said that Louis XIV of France even asked for it on his deathbed. Even though it lost its prominence, some traditional wineries in the region are looking for ways to revalue it.
As one of twenty-five wineries affiliated with the Grandes Pagos de España, winemaker Enrique Mendoza enjoys prestige in the D.O. Alicante. Although this family business itself is located a few kilometers above Benidorm, in Alfàs del Pi, they have vineyards in both zones. In addition to the local grapes, Moscatel (white) and Monastrell (red), winemaker José (eldest son of) likes to experiment with Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Petit Verdot and Syrah.
A two-hour tour and tasting of seven different wines (with cheese and sausage platter) costs €22 per person. This tour, which must be booked in advance, is conducted in both Spanish and English. Are you a real wine connoisseur and would you rather spend the whole day learning about wines? You will find all the information you are looking for on the company’s website.
Alicante wine areas
Did you enjoy the tasting so much that you want to visit more wineries in the area? Besides Bodegas Mendoza in Alfàs del Pi, Pinoso, Villena and Jalón are also known for their fine wineries.