Located in a privileged spot in the south of Spain, at the western most tip of Europe, lies the Sherry Region. An area that, many years ago, was covered by the sea, giving way over time to rich lands ideal for agriculture.

In this wine region embraced by the Atlantic Ocean, the mouth of the Guadalquivir River, and the mountains, there are currently 9 towns: Jerez de la Frontera, El Puerto de Santa María, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Rota, Chiclana, Chipiona, Trebujena, and Puerto Real in the province of Cádiz, and Lebrija in the province of Seville.

Each of the wineries in these towns, with its own unique history, could be considered a world in itself. And each town, also with its vineyards, a galaxy, that together form a fascinating universe: the universe of Sherry Wines.

Discover the Rich History Behind Sherry Wine

To talk about the history of Sherry wines is to speak of a millennia-long history, marked by the presence of the Phoenicians, who more than 3,000 years ago were already cultivating vines in the area, and later by the Romans, who promoted the trade of our wines.

A history strongly influenced by the Muslims, who continued vine cultivation and brought to the Peninsula the art of distillation, essential for the fortification of Sherry. 

Impacted by the people who repopulated these lands after the Christian reconquest, including nobility and clergy. 

Shaped by the evolution of the wine sector, which transformed into an industry from the 18th century onwards.

Also influenced by the arrival of foreigners and people from other parts of Spain who were drawn to the Sherry region by the wine business and settled here, captivated by the lifestyle in the region.

This history continues to the present day, where Sherry Wines play a fundamental role in our celebrations, our gastronomy, our economy, and even in our language. In short: in our identity.

As you can see, Sherry wine was not made overnight but is the result of centuries of events and civilizations. And that is why I like to say that

‘Knowing the Sherry Region is the best way to understand its wines,
learning about Sherry Wines is the best way to enjoy the Sherry Region’.

Top Reasons to Visit Spain’s Sherry Region

#1 Because you love wine and food.

If you’re a wine lover, visiting the Sherry Region is a must:

Travel back in time as you enter the monumental architecture of its wineries. Discover the fascinating production processes, such as the traditional and unique Solera and Criadera aging system. Get to know the different types of Sherry, from very dry to very sweet, lighter and fresher, or more complex and full-bodied, so there is always a Sherry for everyone. Explore the endless possibilities of enjoying our gastronomy, elevating it to another level with our wines. Sherry wines will break all your preconceived notions of what you have known and tasted until now.

#2 Because you want to experience the most authentic Andalusian lifestyle.

If you are touring the main cities of Andalusia or Spain, your route will likely include destinations like Seville, Granada, or Córdoba. Cities that are certainly worth visiting but can sometimes become overcrowded with tourists.

Visiting the Sherry Region is ideal for completing your program, slowing down after visiting big cities, and enjoying a more local atmosphere, without rush, and with the most authentic representation of Andalusian vibes: sun, food, flamenco, horses, and the Andalusian legacy in all its forms (from architecture to the character of our people). Come for a morning, three days, or (why not?) a week.

#3 Because you want to discover the ancient roots of Western civilization.

The Sherry wines are the perfect guide to discovering the region’s history. But wine tastings or bodega visits can (and should!) be complemented with historical and monumental visits to towns in the Sherry Region and even to Cádiz, the oldest city in the West and a key point for understanding the influence of the sea in the production and trade of our traveling wines.

And last but not least: Because you are a whisky lover!

Did you know that the best whiskies are aged in casks that were previously used to mature sherry wines? By traveling to the Sherry Region, you could discover how these valuable casks are made and how different styles of sherry can influence your favorite spirits.

Trust me: if you identify with even one of these reasons, you should start thinking about coming to Sherry Country.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Sherry Region

How to get to Jerez and move around the area

We’ll talk about Jerez (the capital of the Sherry Region) and Cádiz (the provincial capital) as the most accessible points for exploring the region by land, sea, or air.

• By Plane: Jerez has an airport, La Parra Airport (XRY). It’s a small, former military airport with limited connections but interesting flights from London or Madrid.
• By Train: The train connections are excellent, with:
  • Alvia: Madrid – Córdoba – Seville – Jerez – Cádiz.
  • AVE: Madrid – Seville, then take a regional train that stops in Jerez and continues to Cádiz.
• By Car: Once you’re in the area, you can contact rental car agencies or use taxis for trips like Cádiz to Jerez for less than €50.
• By Catamaran: One way to explore Cádiz Bay is by crossing it with a catamaran, a 20-30 minute journey to the provincial capital from Rota (accessible only by car) or El Puerto de Santa María (accessible by train from Jerez).

Start Planning Your Trip to the Sherry Region

• Would you like to visit the Sherry Region but don’t know where to start?
• Do you want to know how I can help you connect with the essence of the region?
• Do you need recommendations for travel agencies to create a complete program including accommodation, transportation, and other destinations?

Contact me through this link, tell me what you have in mind, and let’s talk!