Cadiz is a Vino de la Tierra title used in Andalucia, Spain. It covers an area north and east of the historic port city of Cadiz, just near Sherry country (see Jerez). This is one of Spain's most southerly wine appellations.
Sunbaked Cadiz is the oldest continuously inhabited area of Spain and winemaking there has a similarly long history. It can be traced back to the 8th Century BC and has continued through Andalucia's colorful history. Cadiz was awarded Vino de la Tierra status in 2005 and is working on its application for promotion to DO status.
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Cadiz VT has two separate areas. The larger zone edges the Atlantic Ocean, which influences it heavily. The smaller area experiences lesser Atlantic influences. Overall, the climate is Mediterranean and the temperatures are warm or mild all year round. Soils are a mixture of arenas (sand), which is naturally found in coastal areas, and albariza, a bright white soil made up of clay, calcium and marine fossils that reflects sunlight back onto the vines. This assists with ripening grapes. The terrain is characterized by gently rolling hills.
A large number of white and red varieties are permitted in the VT's wines. Chardonnay, Palomino Fino, Garrido Fino, Macabeo, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pedro Ximenez, Verdejo, Moscatel de Alejandria (Muscat of Alexandria) and the little-known Chelva and Perruno are authorized for white-wine production. The red-wine varieties include a similar mix of native and international grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Syrah, Garnacha, Monastrell, Merlot, Tintilla de Rota (Graciano), Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and the little-known Mollar Cano.
Whites, rosés and reds may all be vinified, according to the local wine authority. Whites and reds may also be joven (young) or aged, with aging requirements for crianza and reserva titles mirroring the national norms (although they are rarely seen).
Vicente Taberner's Huerta de Albala is perhaps the best-known estate of the region, receiving international accolades for its Taberner No. 1. Cadiz is certain to gain greater recognition in the future given its credentials.
