Betanzos and Its Wine: A Hidden Treasure in A Coruña! | Saborea España: How You Take Care of Yourself!
The Tasting Spain video takes us to the heart of Betanzos, in the province of A Coruña, where the winemaking tradition is experiencing a powerful revival. As part of the “Saborea España: How You Take Care of Yourself!” campaign, this destination perfectly showcases how Betanzos nurtures its products, culinary talent, and environment. Not only is Betanzos rediscovering its rich winemaking history, but it also stands out for its commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The History of Vineyards in Betanzos: Rising from the Ashes
The video takes us on a journey through the historical evolution of Betanzos’ vineyards:
- Medieval Origins – Alongside Ribeiro, Betanzos is one of the oldest winemaking regions in Galicia, dating back to the Middle Ages.
- Crisis and Reconstruction – From the 19th century, diseases like powdery mildew, downy mildew, and phylloxera devastated the vines. However, in 2000, a group of local winemakers began reviving nearly extinct native grape varieties.
- Survival and Quality – Today, with only 12-15 hectares of vineyards, Betanzos is making a strong comeback, producing unique wines with a distinct character.
Caring for the Product: The Unique Wines of Betanzos
The video highlights how Betanzos wines are true ambassadors of quality:
- Native Grape Varieties – The region cultivates Blanco Legítimo, Agudelo, and Mencía Atlántica, varieties known for their freshness, salinity, and unique mineral character, shaped by the microclimate and schist soils.
- Distinctive Wines – Unlike the Albariños or Godellos from inland Galicia, Betanzos wines have a unique personality, resulting from meticulous vine care and traditional techniques adapted to modern times.
Caring for Culinary Talent: Innovation and Sustainability
Betanzos winemakers are committed to sustainability and innovation, setting an exemplary standard:
- Eco-Friendly Practices – They aim to eliminate chemical treatments, working towards full organic certification.
- Small-Scale, High-Quality Production – From 4,000 bottles initially to 7,000 today, the production process remains artisanal and high-quality.
- Iconic Wines – Each wine label tells a story. For example, Cataventos pays tribute to Betanzos’ historic amusement parks.
Caring for the Environment: Betanzos and the Ribeira Mariñana
The video also highlights Betanzos’ deep connection with its natural and cultural surroundings:
- Historic Vineyards – A medieval vineyard is being restored along the Mandeo River, featuring 14th-century stone walls and a privileged microclimate.
- Wines with Atlantic Roots – Proximity to the ocean gives Betanzos wines a distinctive salinity, setting them apart from other Galician regions.
Betanzos: A Hidden Gem in Spanish Gastronomy
The story of Betanzos’ wines is a testament to the dedication behind preserving and reinventing centuries-old traditions. As part of the “Saborea España: How You Take Care of Yourself!” campaign, this destination proves that A Coruña takes care of its gastronomy, elevating its products to national prominence.
If you’re a wine and culture enthusiast, don’t miss the chance to visit Betanzos and experience its wine legacy firsthand. Every sip is a journey through history, nature, and craftsmanship, making this Galician treasure a truly unique destination.
