By ababuj 
From Bodegas to Bodegas: Sampling Aragonese Wines and Local Delicacies
Introduction
Aragon, a region in northeastern Spain, is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and delicious wines and local delicacies. One of the best ways to experience the gastronomic delights of Aragon is by embarking on a journey through its bodegas, or wineries, and sampling the region’s finest wines paired with traditional dishes.
Exploring Aragonese Bodegas
Aragon is home to a number of exceptional bodegas that produce a wide variety of wines, ranging from crisp whites to full-bodied reds. When exploring the region’s bodegas, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process, from grape cultivation to fermentation and aging.
Some of the most renowned bodegas in Aragon include Bodegas Pirineos, Bodegas Enate, and Bodegas Sommos. Each of these wineries offers guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to sample a selection of their wines and gain insight into the unique characteristics of Aragonese wine.
Sampling Aragonese Wines
Aragon is known for its high-quality wines, which are produced in several designated wine regions, such as Somontano, Cariñena, and Campo de Borja. Each of these regions has its own distinct terroir, resulting in a diverse range of wines with unique flavors and aromas.
In Somontano, visitors can sample crisp whites made from the Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer grapes, as well as robust reds produced from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The wines of Somontano are characterized by their freshness and elegance, making them a perfect pairing for the region’s seafood and poultry dishes.
In Cariñena, known for its powerful reds made from the Garnacha grape, visitors can taste rich and spicy wines with notes of dark fruit and peppery undertones. These wines are ideal companions for hearty meat dishes, such as roasted lamb or grilled steak.
In Campo de Borja, famous for its Garnacha wines, visitors can sample bold and full-bodied reds with flavors of ripe berries, plums, and spices. These wines are well-suited to traditional Spanish dishes, such as paella and chorizo.
Pairing Aragonese Wines with Local Delicacies
In addition to sampling Aragonese wines, visitors can also indulge in a variety of local delicacies that complement the flavors of the region’s wines. From savory tapas to sweet desserts, Aragon offers a wealth of culinary delights that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
One popular local delicacy in Aragon is cured ham, known as jamón. Sourced from acorn-fed pigs raised in the region’s oak forests, Aragonese jamón is prized for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. When paired with a glass of bold red wine from Campo de Borja or Cariñena, the salty-sweet flavors of the jamón are enhanced, creating a truly decadent tasting experience.
Another traditional dish that pairs well with Aragonese wines is migas, a savory breadcrumb dish made with garlic, chorizo, and peppers. This hearty dish is perfect for soaking up the flavors of a robust red wine from Somontano, adding an extra layer of richness to the meal.
For those with a sweet tooth, Aragon offers a variety of delectable desserts that are best enjoyed with a glass of sweet dessert wine. From pastries filled with cream and fruit to flaky almond cookies, Aragonese desserts are the perfect way to end a meal on a sweet note.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey through the bodegas of Aragon is a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich culinary traditions of the region. Whether sampling crisp whites from Somontano or bold reds from Cariñena, visitors can experience the diverse flavors and aromas of Aragonese wines paired with delicious local delicacies.
From jamón and migas to pastries and cookies, Aragon offers a wealth of gastronomic delights that are sure to tantalize the taste buds. So, next time you find yourself in northeastern Spain, be sure to explore the bodegas of Aragon and savor the flavors of this vibrant region. Cheers!