The best wineries to visit in Jumilla
In recent years, the wines of the Jumilla DO have made it to the front pages of specialised publications and have become an essential part of every wine lover's wine cellar. But what can we say about Jumilla? A visit to the wineries of Jumilla is a different way of getting to know the gastronomy of Murcia that will leave a good taste in your mouth.
Although Jumilla is located in the north of the Region of Murcia, the truth is that the Jumilla D.O. also includes the municipalities of Montealegre del Castillo, Fuente del Álamo, Ontur, Hellín, Albatana and Tobarra in Albacete.
Despite the small size of this wine-producing region, the wines it produces have in recent years reached such important tables as the Oscar Awards dinner and have captivated expert oenologists such as the well-known Robert Parker.
What makes these wines so special?
Discovering the Murcian wines of Jumilla
The origin of the Jumilla D.O. dates back to 1966, the year of its creation, and since then its wines have been characterised by their intensity and the use of the area's native grape, the Monastrell.
Due to the great fame that their wines have achieved, the wineries in Jumilla offer the possibility of visits in which you can not only tour the vineyards, but also have the opportunity to see and taste the different wines that are produced and stored in the area.
Visiting wineries in Jumilla can be a good plan to spend a different day with your partner. A good plan to visit in Cartagena both for visitors who are wine lovers and for those who want to get to know the area and the local product better.
The wines of Jumilla
Most of the wines of the D.O. Jumilla are made with the Monastrell grape, which accounts for 80% of the total production. It is also possible to find this variety with other grapes such as merlot, cabernet sauvignon, syrah or garnacha for red wines.
But Jumilla does not only produce red wines; it is also possible to find rosé wines made with monastrell grapes; and white wines with airén, macabeo and sauvignon-blanc varieties.
However, there is no better way to get to know the wines of Jumilla than in their place of origin. That is why we propose a complete experience visiting some of the best wineries in the Jumilla designation of origin. Jumilla is approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes from La Manga Club so we recommend it as a day trip.
Hijos de Juan Gil Winery
The Hijos de Juan Gil winery is one of the most important in recent years. Its wines were served at the Oscar ceremony dinner in 2013 and are among the most appreciated by the critic Robert Parker.
They are located in the town of Jumilla, at an altitude of between 750 and 800 metres above sea level. It is possible to visit the wineries from Monday to Saturday, always in the mornings and under previous reservation, although we recommend always visiting the official website of the winery as the schedules and experiences may vary.
Each of these visits lasts between 90 and 110 minutes and includes a visit to the winery, a tasting of three wines (one white and two red) and a small aperitif. To find out the price of this experience, please ask when making your reservation.
Viña Elena Winery
The wines of Bodegas Viña Elena are among the best of the Jumilla D.O. in 2022. This is a winery with origins dating back to 1948, a family legacy located in the town of Jumilla.
We always recommend visiting the official website of the winery as times and experiences may vary. Bodegas Viña Elena is committed to wine tourism, which is why they offer different experiences in the so-called La Casa de los Abuelos (Grandparents' House) that adapt to all kinds of profiles:
- Basic Visit: Visit to the winery and vineyards that includes the tasting of 3 wines from the winery, allows you to taste the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) that is also produced in the winery and includes a typical tapa from Jumilla. The price is 12 € per person.
- Campero Lunch: This is a menu with a wine pairing of 3 wines from the winery that includes a guided tour of the winery and vineyards. The price is 28 € per person.
- Roots Menu: This menu is paired with 4 wines from the winery and also includes a guided tour. Its price is 48 € per person.
- Zarcillo Menu: This menu includes the pairing of 5 wines as well as a guided tour of the winery and vineyards. The price is 60 € per person.
Visits are conducted in both English and Spanish. This must be indicated at the time of booking. It is essential to book in advance by phone, whatsapp or email and receive confirmation of date and time.
Luzón Winery
Bodegas Luzón is one of the oldest wineries in the Jumilla D.O., as its origins date back to 1841. It is a winery that has been run by women since its origins and throughout most of its history. Its wines are always among the best in the denomination of origin.
The winery organises all kinds of activities to raise awareness of its work, such as its open harvest or workshops to learn about the winemaking process. These types of activities are for a limited time only, and it is best to check which ones are available and on what dates on the winery's website.
It is possible to visit the winery all year round (we recommend you check the opening times on the winery's official website as they may vary) thanks to its experiences:
- Luzón Experience: It allows you to get to know the winery and the winemaking process and tour the vineyards. It also includes the tasting of 3 wines from the winery with an aperitif to pair it with. This visit lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes and can be done from Monday to Friday from 11am to 3:30pm, or Saturday and Sunday at 11am. The price is 9,5 € per person, but there is a special price for children from 3 to 17 years old, 3 €.
- Luzón Premium Experience: The premium experience allows you to taste the wine directly from the barrel, in addition to tasting one of their Reserva Especials. The visit ends with a tasting-pairing prepared by one of the most renowned restaurants in Jumilla, accompanied by the winery's premium wines, both red and white. An opportunity to learn about the history of the winery through its wine. The visit lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes and can take place from Monday to Sunday at 12 noon. Minors are not allowed on this activity and the price is 30 € per person.
Ready to discover the wineries of the Jumilla D.O.?