Giró Grape: origin and indigenous wines of Marina Alta in Bouquet Xaló
Giró Grape: origin, characteristics, and the value of an indigenous variety
Giró grape · Giró wines · native Alicante varieties · Jalón wines · Mediterranean red wine
The Giró is an indigenous red grape variety from southeastern Spain, particularly deeply rooted in the Marina Alta region, and especially around Xaló. For many years, it was a secondary variety, forgotten or used as part of blends, with hardly any commercial prominence. However, in the last decade, it has experienced a remarkable recovery thanks to the work of small producers who have championed its authenticity and its direct connection to the land.
Photograph: Pepe Mendoza
Origin of the Giró grape
Giró is a variety traditionally cultivated in the province of Alicante, especially in the area of Vall de Pop, and its origin dates back centuries. Although its history is poorly documented, it has been stably cultivated in the dry-farmed vineyards of the region and has been part of the local wine landscape for generations.
Its recent revaluation is due to ampelographic studies that confirm its oenological potential, as well as the search by winemakers for varieties with their own identity, adapted to the environment, and capable of offering unique wines.
Oenological characteristics
The Giró grape stands out for its ability to reflect the Mediterranean environment with precision and honesty. Wines made with this variety typically present:
Color: clear ruby tones, with medium or low intensity.
Aromas: fresh red fruit (strawberry, pomegranate), aromatic scrubland herbs, soft spices, and mineral hints.
Palate: light wines, with good acidity, soft tannins, and a fresh finish.
Alcohol: moderate, which makes them versatile and very gastronomic.
These are not powerful wines, but rather balanced, delicate, and with a distinct Mediterranean character, ideal for both young consumption and more complex aged wines.
Producers working with Giró in the Xaló area
The recovery of the Giró grape has been possible thanks to the commitment of projects such as:
Curii Uvas y Vinos (Xaló), focused on natural and minimal intervention wines.
Óscar Mestre, with single-vineyard wines that champion local identity.
Pepe Mendoza Casa Agrícola, one of the big names in Alicante wine, who has helped position Giró nationally.
Aida i Lluís, winemakers committed to native varieties and sustainable cultivation.
All of them are committed to old, dry-farmed vineyards, cultivated with organic or biodynamic practices, and respectful winemaking, where the grape expresses itself without embellishment.
Photograph: Oscar Mestre
Giró Wines at Bouquet Xaló
At Bouquet Xaló, we offer a carefully selected range of wines made with Giró grapes, both single-varietal and blends where this variety contributes freshness and personality. These wines stand out for their uniqueness, their cultural value, and their direct connection to the Xaló region and the Marina Alta.
We advise our customers to discover the potential of these wines, perfect for those seeking authenticity, proximity, and expression of the environment.