Iznate, Spain – Mountainous Region of Moscatel Wine

The inland region of Andalucia in Spain known as La Axarquia is where the typically Spanish village of Iznate can be found, close to the Iznate River.

Just 29km from Malaga and 5km from the coast, almost every spare piece of land in the area is planted with olive or almond trees along with grape vines producing the Muscatel grapes which are used to make the local wine.

This is a mountainous region of Spain and some of the areas most impressive landscapes, which can all be seen from the town, include the peaks of Pico Chamizo, La Maroma and Navachica in the Sierra de Camoroles, Sierra Tejada and Sierra de Almijara ranges respectively.

The village has retained its Arab heritage which is evident everywhere particularly in the narrow Moorish streets which twist and wind themselves up the steep, undulating slopes of the area. The houses are of the traditional whitewashed style and are built, usually to only one or two stories high, close to the most important monument of the village, the 16th century church of San Gregorio VII.

The church, which benefited from being restored around 50 years ago, also houses the town hall building and can be found in the main village square, the Plaza de los Dolores.

This is a particularly beautiful village square, being decorated with mosaics and having an outstanding viewpoint from which visitors can admire the stunning views.

The local traditions and customs, which mainly involve food and celebrations, are an important part of life to the villagers of Iznate, the resurrection of Christ (the Domingo de Resurrection – Easter Sunday) being just one.

The Fiesta de la Uva Moscatel is a traditional fiesta, taking place on the first Saturday in August and involves many parties celebrating the Moscatel grapes. The residents will firstly attend mass and are then treated to a flamenco festival with free samples of local, traditional food.

Locally grown, natural products (pork dishes and bread in particular) are a main part of the gastronomy of Iznate with influences from the nearby coast, such as fish dishes, also being popular.

During the festivals, residents of Iznate traditionally eat Ajoblanco which is a cold soup made with crushed almonds and served with peeled grapes. Chickpea stews and chard along with cod omelette served with treacle are other dishes that are eaten customarily at Easter time

The locals are also adept at the production of the sweet wine the area is famous for and the Moscatel grapes used to make this are also eaten at Christmas soaked in liqueur.