Incredible Wine Tasting Just 25 Minutes from Valencia - Discover Finca Calderón in Requena
There’s so much to experience during a trip to Valencia - from vibrant old town strolls to beachside paellas. But if you’re looking to connect more deeply with the region and uncover a slower, richer side of Valencian culture, a wine-tasting escape might be exactly what your itinerary needs.
Whether you're craving a local off-the-radar day trip or want to explore a place rooted in nature, tradition and sustainability, Finca Calderón in the Requena-Utiel wine region is a must. Just 25 minutes by train from Valencia city, this certified organic winery has become one of the most memorable nearby experiences I’ve had. From sweeping vineyard views and award-winning wines to warm hospitality and quiet countryside charm, this is the kind of place that stays with you - even if you’re not usually into wine.
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A Must-Do Trip from Valencia Spain
If you’re planning what to do in Valencia beyond the city centre or want to see more of the region’s cultural and culinary richness, visiting (or staying at) Finca Calderón is such a unique addition to your trip.
The Requena-Utiel region is famous for its wine-making heritage and Finca Calderón stands out for combining centuries-old practices with sustainability. It’s part of the Sierra Norte wine group and its commitment to organic and regenerative viticulture means every glass reflects deep care for the land. Getting there is simple: from Valencia Joaquín Sorolla station, the train to Requena-Utiel takes about 25 minutes. It’s an easy full-day trip, but I highly recommend staying at Finca Calderón to truly soak in the tranquillity. It’s a whole experience and getaway itself!
Whether you’re here on a weekend getaway or looking for a more meaningful experience than the usual tourist attractions - wine tasting at Finca Calderón is absolutely worth it.
Your Wine Tour at Finca Calderón: What to Expect
You arrive first at Finca Calderón - a new enoresort in Requena. Set within a historic winery dating back to 1901, the space immediately reflects the character of the region. It’s beautiful, sleek and minimalist - surrounded by greenery and infused with calm. There’s a quiet elegance to it. After a warm welcome, you’re guided through the grounds toward the winery.
When we arrived, we were greeted by Alfredo, the English-speaking guide - kind, knowledgeable and passionate about the craft. (Tours are also available in Spanish). Immediately, we were offered a welcome drink: a crisp glass of Cava. This wasn’t just any sparkling wine - Requena is the only municipality in the Valencian Community authorised to produce Cava under the official Denomination of Origin (DO) designation. It’s a point of pride for the region and a delicious start to the experience.
We began outdoors, where Alfredo explained the traditional winemaking methods, the native grape varieties and how the unique climate and altitude shape the wine. Even if you know nothing about viticulture, he brings it all to life in a warm, engaging way. Next, we headed underground to their cellar - a cool, cave-like space carved into the land. It’s their bioclimatic winery - a sustainable, energy-efficient building designed with the local climate in mind.
One of the most impressive parts is the semi-subterranean aging room, built beneath a green roof that naturally regulates temperature and humidity. It’s a peaceful, purposeful space, created to protect the wine and the land around it. Here, Alfredo spoke to us in depth about the winemaking process.
The Wine Tasting Experience
At the end of the tour, we moved on to the tasting - and it was a highlight.
There was a curated tasting of four of their best wines (which Alfredo kindly chose for us as the best pairings), each presented and explained by Alfredo. The pace was relaxed and questions were encouraged. You really get the sense this is about connection.
The tasting was paired with a tabla de embutidos (Spanish-style charcuterie board), which featured:
● 🧀 Local cheeses (soft, aged and a regional favourite)
● 🥖 Crunchy breadsticks
● 🥩 Cured meats from nearby producers
● 🍫 A decadent square of dark chocolate to finish
My favourites? Their rosé, Futenesca, was bright, elegant, and bursting with personality. The premium white was also a standout - everything was super smooth, light and subtle. The best part? The small group size. With just five of us, it felt personal and intimate! They are incredibly attentive here too, with so much knowledge.
They also offer vegan or intolerance-friendly options - just mention your needs during booking and they’ll tailor it for you.
Certified Organic, Vegan and Regenerative Wines
What sets Finca Calderón apart is their strong ethos.
● ✅ Certified organic farming practices
● ✅ 100% vegan-friendly production (no animal-based fining agents)
● ✅ Regenerative agriculture techniques that focus on soil health and biodiversity
They’re actively working to preserve the land and its ecosystems!
Where to Stay in Requena: A Stay at the Vineyard
Yes - Finca Calderón is both a charming finca vineyard and a beautiful boutique stay, perfect for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in nature and wine culture.
Here you can:
● Wake up to peaceful vineyard views
● Sip your morning coffee on a terrace surrounded by vines
● Take a quiet walk through the countryside before breakfast
● End your day with a second round of wine and local food, no train timetable in sight
Perfect for couples, solo travellers, or anyone craving a deeper connection with the land and themselves. The accommodation is simple, charming and rooted in the same values of
sustainability and comfort. Staying overnight also gives you time to explore the town of Requena, known for its medieval old quarter, underground wine caves and rich historical tapestry.
How to Plan a Valencia to Requena Trip Without a Car
Getting there is easier than you think. Here's how we did it:
1. Take the train from Valencia Joaquín Sorolla to Requena-Utiel (approx. 25 minutes). Book via the Renfe website.
2. At the Requena-Utiel station, the staff kindly helped us call a local taxi to the finca (about 10 minutes away). Note: there’s no Uber here, so plan ahead if you’re returning late.
Tip: Book your tasting tour in advance (at least a few days before), especially during weekends.
What to Do in Requena-Utiel: Wine, Villages & Scenic Views
If you’ve got time, don’t rush back! This region is full of cultural gems, scenic walks and local flavours. A few ideas:
● 🌿 Requena Old Town – A beautiful medieval centre with cobbled streets and underground wine caves
● 🍷 Wine museums and bodegas – Learn about centuries of winemaking tradition
● 🥘 Local restaurants – Try authentic Valencian paella in its birthplace
● 📍 Wine Museum & Caves – Great for history buffs and wine lovers alike
● ♀️ Countryside hikes – Especially beautiful around golden hour
● 💬 Chat with locals – Alfredo gave us extra local tips after the tasting!
Whether you’re seeking slow countryside
Quick Info for Your Valencia Wine Guide
📍 Where is Requena, Spain?
→ About 70 km west of Valencia, accessible by direct highspeed train (Renfe)
🍷 What to do in Requena?
→ Wine tasting, medieval caves, paella, hiking, slow escapes
🏨 Requena Spain hotels?
→ Stay overnight at Finca Calderón or book a boutique stay in the old town
📆 Is it doable as a day trip?
→ Yes — but if you have the time, stay for a couple days for a more immersive experience
Final Thoughts - Is It Worth it?
Absolutely. If you're planning a Valencia itinerary and want something deeper than just beach days and sightseeing, this is one of the most fun, immersive and meaningful things you can do.
Alfredo and the team were warm, welcoming and full of passion - their knowledge and genuine care for the land made the whole experience feel personal and authentic. The environment itself is beautifully preserved: rolling vineyards, native plants and peaceful countryside that support local biodiversity. Birdsong and the gentle breeze are constant companions here, reminding you how connected the winery is to nature. It’s clear that Finca Calderón values not just the quality of their wines, but also the health of the ecosystem around them, making it a true sanctuary for both people and wildlife.
Plus, its proximity to the Requena-Utiel train station makes it incredibly easy to reach, just a short taxi ride away - perfect for a seamless day trip or a relaxing overnight stay. The property and grounds are stunning, combining minimalist design with lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere that invites you to slow down and soak it all in. There’s so much to explore here - not only in Valencia city but across the region. Requena itself is rich in history, culture
View Our Interview with Alfredo - Finca Calderón & Requena
Watch my mini interview with Alfredo here - we talked about what makes Requena and Finca Calderón unique, their story and vision on preserving local traditions and his top tips for exploring the region!