Utiel Requena is a Spanish Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP) for wines located in the province of Valencia (Valencian Community). It takes its name from the two neighbouring towns of Utiel and Requena. It is renowned for the predominant use of the Bobal grape variety. The DOP is located in the transition zone between the Mediterranean coast and high plateau (La Mancha) of Central Spain. The whole area slopes down slightly from northwest to southeast. The vineyards are located between two rivers: the Turia and the Cabriel. Temperatures can reach a maximum of 40°C in summer and drop to a minimum of -10°C in winter. Nevertheless, the vines are well adapted to such a climate and there is a Mediterranean influence due to the closeness of the sea (only 70 km as the crow flies) and the cool wind, known as the Solano, helps to keep temperatures down. The Bobal grape variety occupies over 80% of the vineyards. Bobal is the second most planted red grape variety in Spain.
The authorized grape varieties are:
Red: Bobal, Tempranillo, Garnacha Tinta, Garnacha Tintorera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc.
White: Macabeo, Merseguera, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Parellada, Verdejo, Moscatel.