There are a good number of wineries in Chipiona producing a significant amount of wine, which is characterised by its personality and traditional production methods that date back several centuries. Many of these wineries in Chipiona cannot be visited because, in many cases, they only produce wines for the consumption of the families that own them.
Those that do allow visitors to enter offer a very enjoyable and interesting experience, due to both the beauty and originality of the wineries themselves and the uniqueness of the beverages produced there. In fact, visiting some of these wineries is one of the best ways to understand important aspects of the culture and folklore of Chipiona and Cadiz.
Out of all the wines produced in Chipiona, the star of the show is the Moscatel, although you will also find Fino, Oloroso and Cream that meet the parameters set by the Marco de Jerez, or the sherry wine-growing region.
Local wines: with Moscatel taking centre stage
Wines typical of the Marco de Jerez, whose growing area also includes Chipiona, are made according to methods that are unique within Spain. Most consist of fortified wines; in other words, wine with additional alcohol content, which gives it very remarkable longevity, developed in the casks or barrels that are stacked on top of one another in the area’s characteristic wineries.
Although the fortification process is important in the production of these wines, the truly distinctive feature is the way they are arranged in different tiers, or criaderas, with the top tier known as solera. This dynamic process that mixes wines from different vintages in piled up barrels gives the wine that complexity, roundness and character that makes it unmistakable.
As previously mentioned, if there is one wine that stands out against the winemaking backdrop of the town, it is the Moscatel of Chipiona. Sweet, aromatic, golden… Its nose and mouth reflect the influence of the sea, the albariza soil and the Muscat of Alexandria grapes grown in vineyards very close to the coastline.
Best wineries to visit
Below you will find more information about the best wineries to visit in Chipiona. Whenever possible, we recommend booking tours in advance. Keep in mind that, especially in summer and the town’s other peak periods, visiting wineries is a highly popular activity for those who come to this part of the country in search of relaxation and experiences that go beyond enjoying the beach and the sea.
César Florido (Padre Lerchundi, 35):
One of the most famous wineries in Chipiona, with more than a century of history. It has managed to maintain its independence and criteria when it comes to producing Moscatel, especially its Especial and Dorado variations, as well as Fino and vin de liqueur. The tour allows you to visit the aging cellars and tasting rooms as well as introducing you to the wines they produce and other local and regional gastronomic delicacies.
Cooperativa Católico Agrícola (Diamantino García, 19):
This cooperative, which brings together several of the town’s small winegrowers, is an important economic and social institution in Chipiona. In its facilities, Fino, Moscatel and fortified wines with their own personality are produced and bottled. Very popular among locals, it is also a great place to buy them directly from the producers themselves, without the need for intermediaries.
José Mellado Martín (Carretera de Rota, 2):
With a family tradition dating back several generations, this winery stands out for its handcrafted Moscatel, made according to natural methods. The winery has maintained traditions both when it comes to the aging process and tours of its facilities. Perfect for those seeking authenticity and direct contact with the producer.
Vinum Enoturismo (Av. Rota, km 0,7)
Although it is not an operating winery, it is nonetheless a highly recommended experience to help you get to know the world of wine and Moscatel in Chipiona. The large building, built in the style of the area’s so-called famous catedrales de vino or impressive wineries, houses an educational exhibition on the cultivation of vines and the production and storage of wine. The exhibition is open and adapted to audiences of all ages.
Moscatel Museum
Housed in a restored former winery, the Moscatel Museum is a space that provides insight into the history and uniqueness of this sweet wine in an educational and highly entertaining manner.
The exhibition concept is based on an audio-visual and sensory tour allowing you to understand the particular characteristics of Moscatel. The museum is divided into several themed sections: the Eco-museum of the Moscatel Vineyard, the Roman Cellar and Pottery, the Renaissance, the Modern Era, the Contemporary Vineyard, the Corporate Winery Museum, the Museum of the Science of Wine, the wine tourism route through the winery and the Museum of Moscatel Culture.
The Moscatel Museum is very close to the old town on Avenida de Regla. Tours are guided, with the cost ranging from between five and 12 euros, depending on the Moscatel wines that you taste and whether you choose to have them with or without appetisers.
