LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
APPELATIONS
Think of Alto Turia as the wine region that time forgot. And that’s precisely its superpower. While the rest of Valencia chased volume and Moscatel fame, this mountainous corner carved out an identity at elevations that would make most winemakers nervous. We’re talking vineyards perched between 700 and 1,100 meters (2,297–3,609 feet), where the air is thinner, winters are harsher and the Merseguera grape rules with an iron fist. In fact, about 75% of all grapes grown in Alto Turia are Merseguera, underscoring its importance to the region and further solidifying its status as the grape’s heartland.
Alto Turia primarily produces white wines from indigenous Merseguera grapes, known locally as ‘Verdosilla,’ which thrive in these challenging conditions. This is wine’s answer to the misfit island of toys: underappreciated, overlooked, and absolutely worth discovering.
Alto Turia wines are recognized for their distinctive aroma, which sets them apart from other Valencian wines and enhances their unique sensory appeal.
This profile explores Alto Turia’s terroir, statistics, history, grape varieties, wine styles, best producers, and sustainability practices that define this extraordinary sub-zone and showcase the region's wines, each with its own personality, shaped by altitude and tradition.
Alto Turia occupies the northwestern frontier of Valencia province, part of the larger DO Valencia, a designation established in 1957 and segmented into four distinct subzones. Each of these subzones, including Alto Turia, has unique terroirs, grape varieties, and wine characteristics that contribute to the diversity and quality of Valencian wines.
The region comprises eight municipalities across the Serranía and Rincón de Ademuz areas, located about 100 kilometres from Valencia. Significant historical sites in the area include the Roman aqueduct of Peña Cortada and the 16th-century Church of Our Lady of the Angels in Aras de los Olmos. Local festivals, such as Santa Catalina in Aras de los Olmos, celebrate the region’s culture throughout the year. The traditional Mojiganga dance is performed during major festivals and is unique to the region.
The region follows the Turia River valley through the Serranía mountain range, creating a continental-influenced microclimate that’s more Burgundy than beach resort. This diversity of microclimates is a hallmark of the distinct subzones within the DO Valencia, producing wines with tension, minerality, and freshness that coastal Valencia simply cannot replicate.
Alto Turia encompasses approximately 200 hectares under vine, producing primarily white wines from Merseguera and Macabeo. The DO Valencia overall covers 18,060 hectares with 93 wineries, making Alto Turia a boutique fraction of an already modest appellation. Located in the northeast, it boasts the highest altitude vineyards in DO Valencia, producing fresh white wines mostly made from indigenous Merseguera grapes, as well as red wines that stand out for their unique characteristics. In contrast, the Moscatel de Valencia sub-region features vineyards at low altitudes, close to sea level (0 to 100 meters), where the warm, humid climate is ideal for growing Muscat grapes, resulting in sweet, aromatic dessert wines with high alcohol content.
Key Alto Turia DO Metrics:
The altitude creates considerable thermal range between day and night, extending the growing season and preserving acidity — the secret weapon of Alto Turia whites. Sandy-loam soils over limestone bedrock with low fertility force vines to dig deep, concentrating flavours and adding mineral tension. The region’s climate and altitude also contribute to grapes with lower sugar levels and higher acidity, resulting in lighter, fresher wines that are distinctly elegant. Growing grapes at such high altitudes presents challenges, such as cooler temperatures and a shorter ripening period, but also offers benefits, such as enhanced acidity and aromatic complexity, compared to the low altitudes and near-sea-level vineyards of other sub-regions.
Archaeological evidence shows that vine cultivation in the Valencia region of Spain dates back to ancient times, highlighting a rich vinicultural heritage that spans millennia.
Wine production in Valencia dates back millennia, but Alto Turia’s modern story is one of survival and reinvention. For decades, this was bulk wine territory: high-yielding Merseguera destined for anonymous blends. Cooperativa Agrícola Santa Bárbara (1955) provided infrastructure, but depopulation and economic migration nearly gutted the region by the late 20th century. In Valencia, producers are increasingly focusing on quality over quantity in winemaking, moving away from bulk production.
Recent years have seen a revival of interest in native grape varieties and traditional wine-making techniques in Valencia, signalling a broader shift in the region’s approach. A key factor in the revival of Alto Turia has been the commitment to quality winemaking, with producers emphasizing premium, well-crafted wines and the preservation of indigenous grape varieties. Merseguera, the most important white grape variety in Valencia, plays a central role in this transformation. However, there is now growing interest among wineries in Alto Turia in producing quality wines, signalling a revival of the region’s winemaking potential. Despite this, Alto Turia has been facing a decrease in wine production due to population decline and the abandonment of vineyards.
The turning point came with a new generation seeing opportunity in adversity. Starting in the early 2000s, producers like Bodegas Terra d’Art (founded around 2009 by enologist siblings Juan José and Casandra Palmero) and Bodega Polo Monleón (third-generation operation dating to 1952) began farming old vines organically, reducing yields dramatically, from 8–10 kilos per vine to 1.5 kilos, and focusing on terroir expression over volume.
Baldovar 923 (launched in 2016 by Nito Alegre Soler) and Devotio (natural wine project started in 2020) represent the latest wave: minimal intervention winemaking that treats Alto Turia’s extreme conditions as assets, not obstacles.
Alto Turia’s sustainability story is both intentional and circumstantial. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve designation mandates ecological stewardship. Organic certification by Baldovar 923 and Devotio avoids synthetic pesticides and herbicides. Santa Bárbara offers an organic wine line. Baldovar 923 applies biodynamic principles. Natural winemaking uses wild fermentations and minimal sulphites. Water conservation relies on dry-farming adapted to 475mm annual rainfall. Mediterranean forest integration provides habitat and natural pest control. Dramatically reduced yields (1.5 kg per vine vs. 8–10 kg industry standard) concentrate quality.
Sustainability here means both environmental stewardship and economic viability, keeping young winemakers in the mountains.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
Alto Turia sits at the northwestern extreme of Valencia province, roughly 70 kilometres from the coast and close to the Mediterranean Sea. The vineyards are surrounded by Mediterranean forest (pines, oaks, almonds), creating an ecosystem that moderates temperature extremes while maintaining high diurnal variation. The landscape features extensive woodlands and varied vegetation surrounding the Turia River, further enhancing the region’s natural beauty and ecological diversity. The proximity to the sea not only shapes the region’s Mediterranean identity but also brings a maritime influence that impacts both the terroir and the style of wines produced here.
Despite Mediterranean proximity, the region experiences a continental-influenced climate with harsh winters (temperatures dropping to -10°C/14°F) and dry summers reaching 40°C/104°F. The altitude provides cooling relief during summer days, while 2,160 hours of annual sunshine ensure proper ripening. Annual rainfall of 475mm falls primarily in spring and autumn. The region is fundamentally dry. However, violent storms can occur in late summer and autumn, posing challenges for grape growers.
The Alto Turia region’s local climate, shaped by both altitude and the Mediterranean Sea's influence, features hot, dry summers and cold winters, which significantly shape the character of its wines. The thermal amplitude, the difference between day and night temperatures, is Alto Turia’s calling card. Grapes ripen slowly during warm days, then shut down at night, preserving acidity and developing complex aromatics. This is interval training for vines: stress them, let them recover, repeat.
Brown-limestone soils with sandy-loam texture dominate. Baldovar 923’s vineyards sit on limestone, sandstone, slate, and fossilized coral and oysters: ancient seabeds pushed skyward by tectonic forces. Low organic matter and fertility force vines to develop deep root systems, accessing minerality and water reserves unavailable to shallow-rooted coastal vines.
Alto Turia is overwhelmingly a white wine territory, with Merseguera leading. This indigenous grape has adapted over centuries to thrive in the region’s harsh conditions, making it central to Alto Turia’s winemaking tradition and identity. Red wines produced in Alto Turia include a range of red grape varieties, both indigenous and international, such as Bobal, Tempranillo, and experimental plantings of Graciano, which add diversity to the region’s offerings.
Bobal, the dominant red wine grape of Valencia, is particularly notable for its ability to reflect the region's unique terroir. Monastrell is also an important indigenous red wine grape in Valencia, further contributing to the region’s rich viticultural heritage. International varieties like Merlot, Syrah, and Petit Verdot are increasingly being planted as part of ongoing experimentation in Alto Turia and the broader DO Valencia.
White grapes such as Merseguera, Macabeo, and Moscatel de Alexandria play a significant role in Alto Turia’s wine production, contributing to the region’s fresh, aromatic wine styles. Moscatel de Alexandria and Moscatel de Valencia are especially important in producing aromatic and sweet wines, particularly in the Moscatel de Valencia sub-region, where they are used for both traditional and modern styles, including mistela and sparkling Moscatel de Valencia.
Merseguera deserves special attention: it’s the region’s identity grape, adapted over centuries to thrive in harsh conditions that would break lesser varieties. Locally known as ‘Verdosilla,’ this indigenous grape is central to Alto Turia’s winemaking tradition and identity. Bobal, while challenging to work with due to its tannins and acidity, can produce distinguished wines that reflect the region's unique terroir
Alto Turia produces four primary wine styles unified by a common thread: freshness and a remarkable range of aromas. These wines are Blanco Seco (a dry white wine), Rosado, Tinto and Tinto Crianza.
Altitude-driven freshness unifies all styles, and the wines are celebrated for their expressive aromas, ranging from floral and citrus in whites to spice and herbs in reds. Even reds maintain bright acidity and moderate alcohol, a stark contrast to brawny coastal Mediterranean wines. Alto Turia is increasingly recognized for producing some of the best wines in the Valencia DO, especially for those seeking freshness, elegance, and aromatic complexity.
Alto Turia whites excel with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, making them a natural pairing for classic Mediterranean dishes.
Valencia’s gastronomy is closely linked to its local wines, enhancing the culinary experience and making food-and-wine pairings a highlight of the region.
Match the wine’s freshness and minerality to preparations emphasizing acidity, salinity, or umami.
Alto Turia offers wine tourism centred on isolation, natural beauty, and authentic rural experiences. The Alto Turia region in Spain is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve designated in 2019, highlighting its ecological and cultural significance. This means that the region supports a variety of wildlife, including eagles, owls, rabbits, foxes, and boars, and prioritizes sustainable tourism and ecological preservation. The local economy is traditionally based on agriculture, livestock, and forestry, while increasingly focusing on sustainable tourism.
The natural environment supports biodiversity, including various fish species and Iberian hares. Experiences include vineyard tours at extreme altitudes, harvest experiences (September–October), natural wine tastings, village visits to hamlets like Ahíllas (population: 14), stargazing, and hiking through Mediterranean forests. Visiting a local winery offers unique insight into both traditional and modern winemaking practices, making it an essential part of the wine tourism experience. The Benagéber Reservoir also provides opportunities for water sports and recreational activities, adding to the region’s diverse outdoor offerings. Local agricultural products include wine, honey, olive oil, and cured meats.
The region is also popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, kayaking, and canyoning, making it a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Cultural highlights include the Fiestas Gordas, celebrated every seven years in Titaguas and Aras de los Olmos, featuring the traditional Mojiganga dance, unique to the region. Many wineries in the Valencia region welcome visitors for tastings and tours, enhancing the wine tourism experience.
Accessibility is limited: winding roads, minimal signage, and required advance appointments. This rewards curious travellers willing to venture off the beaten path. The Alto Turia region is also recognized as a Starlight destination, offering clear night skies ideal for astronomical observation, making it a haven for stargazing enthusiasts.
The Valencian Community is not an island. It’s part of a vibrant tapestry of wine regions that stretch across eastern Spain, each contributing its own flavours, traditions, and innovations to the world of wine. Exploring these neighbouring regions offers wine lovers a deeper appreciation for the diversity and dynamism of Spanish wine production, and helps put the unique character of Valencian wine into context.
To the south, the renowned DO Alicante stands out for its robust reds and sweet dessert wines, particularly those made from the native Monastrell grape. Alicante’s sun-drenched vineyards, sandy soils, and Mediterranean climate produce wines with bold fruit, structure, and a distinct sense of place. The region is also famous for its historic Fondillón, a rare, aged dessert wine celebrated for centuries.
Heading inland, the Utiel-Requena DO is a powerhouse of red wine production, anchored by the Bobal grape. This region’s high-altitude vineyards and continental climate yield fresh, vibrant reds and rosés with lively acidity and deep colour. Utiel-Requena’s commitment to both traditional and modern winemaking techniques has made it a favourite among those seeking wines that are both authentic and innovative.
Further west, the Jumilla DO in neighbouring Murcia is another key player, known for its full-bodied reds crafted from Monastrell and other Mediterranean varieties. Jumilla’s arid climate and old-vine plantings yield rich, concentrated, expressive wines — perfect for those who appreciate powerful, characterful wines.
These surrounding regions not only share similar climatic conditions and grape varieties with the Valencian Community, but they also influence and inspire local winemakers. The exchange of ideas, techniques, and even grape cuttings across these borders has helped shape the evolution of Valencian wines, encouraging experimentation with both indigenous and international grapes.
For anyone exploring the wines of Valencia, venturing into these neighbouring regions offers a broader perspective on the region’s winemaking heritage and the remarkable diversity of wines produced in eastern Spain. Whether you’re drawn to the aromatic whites of Alto Turia, the bold reds of Utiel-Requena, or the legendary dessert wines of Alicante, the interconnectedness of these wine regions ensures there’s always something new to discover in the glass.
Alto Turia is home to a small but influential group of wineries that showcase the region’s altitude-driven freshness, indigenous varieties, and commitment to quality. From historic cooperatives to cutting-edge natural wine projects, these producers reflect the full spectrum of tradition and innovation shaping Alto Turia today.
For a broader perspective on innovative and traditional winemaking in the Valencia region, Celler del Roure is a renowned winery in the Terres dels Alforins area, celebrated for reviving indigenous grape varieties and using clay jars (tinajas) in their production.
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