Andalucía

The second-largest of 17 autonomous regions in Spain, located in the south of the country, includes 8 provinces. In the east it neighbours on the Murcia region, to the north lie Extremadura and La Mancha. It is the oldest wine-growing region in Spain, the Phoenicians founded the capital and port city of Gadir (Cádiz today) around 1100 BC, and exported wines from here. During the 7 centuries of Moorish rule, which ended in the 16th century, wine production continued to a limited degree, and the region became known for its raisins. The Moors transformed the region into a huge garden, which was described as “paradise on earth”. Jerez was conquered back from the Moors in 1264, long before the remainder of Andalucia was, and production of highly alcoholic wines along the lines of sherry was initiated. There was a decline in the fortunes of the region from the 16th century onward, even in viticulture, and it was only the rising tourist boom in the early 1950’s that ensured a significant upswing. Andalucia ist he hottest part of Spain, and has a Mediterranean climate. Westerly winds from the Atlantic ocean provide a cooling effect, and the often limestone-rich soil stores water even during periods of drought. Zones classified as DO in the region are Condado de Huelva, Jerez, Malaga, Montilla-Moriles and Síerras de Málaga