Requena, a picturesque town in the province of Valenica is well known for several key elements that make it a popular destination for travelers. Part of the Utiel-Requena wine region, the town is one of Spain’s most prestigious wine-producing areas. The town is particularly famous for its Bobal grape, a variety native to the region that produces robust red wines. As well as this, Requena is well-known for its embutidos, a variety of traditional Spanish sausages and cold meats.

The Embutido de Requena Festival, held every February, is a grand tribute to the town’s rich tradition of sausage-making, bringing both locals and visitors together for an unforgettable cultural and gastronomic experience. If you’re wondering why this festival is a must-visit, our blog will answer all of your questions and tell you why this town´s annual sausage festival should be on your travel bucket list.

A Celebration of traditional Spanish sausage-making

Requena is renowned for its artisanal sausage production, with recipes passed down through generations. At the festival, you’ll get the chance to sample a variety of sausages, including longaniza, chorizo, salchichón, and morcilla. Each type of sausage is crafted using time-honored methods that give them their distinctive flavors. You´ll also get to watch local butchers in action as they display their craft as they prepare and cure the sausages, is both fascinating and educational. Much more than just a taste test; it’s an immersion into a centuries-old practice that continues to thrive in Requena.

Delicious food tastings

The festival offers endless tastings of sausages, paired with local wines from Requena’s famous wine region. It’s a foodie’s dream come true, literally. Just imagine yourself walking through cobblestone streets, lined with stalls offering freshly grilled embutidos, sizzling with the smoky scent of paprika and garlic. If you like the sound of that, then this festival is the one for you.

There’s no better way to savor the heart of Spanish cuisine than by indulging in these homemade treats. From mild to spicy delights, the different textures and flavors cater to every palate, offering a taste of authentic Spain. It’s impossible to resist these locally-made testers, which of course have been prepared using age-old recipes passed down through generations.

A rich and cultural experience

The Embutido de Requena Festival isn’t just about food—it’s a full cultural experience that also immerses you in the town’s heritage. From traditional music and folk dances to parades and historical exhibitions, the festival provides a glimpse into the deep-rooted customs of the area. The festival also coincides with San Antonio Abad, the town’s patron saint, so the celebrations also include religious processions, blessing of animals, and other age-old rituals that showcase Requena’s spiritual and cultural identity. It’s a blend of history, faith, and culinary art all in one place.

A perfect pairing with Requena´s wine culture

Requena isn’t just famous for its sausages as previously stated—it’s also part of the Utiel-Requena wine region, known for producing some of Spain’s finest wines. During the festival, many of the local wineries open their doors to visitors for tastings, tours, and wine-pairing events. If you enjoy a good glass of vino, you’ll love the opportunity to explore the region’s vineyards and sample its award-winning Bobal wines.

When pairing embutidos from Requena with wine, the region’s famous Bobal red wines are an excellent choice due to their bold, fruity flavors and earthy undertones that complement the richness of the sausages. The marriage of sausages and wine really is a match made in culinary heaven, and the festival gives you the chance to enjoy both to the fullest.

Enjoy a unique winter getaway

Held in February, the festival offers a unique winter getaway. While many people are looking for sunny beaches, the Embutido de Requena Festival gives you the chance to experience Spain from a different perspective. Instead of the usual tourist-heavy destinations, Requena offers an authentic and quieter side of Spain, making it a great off-the-beaten-path experience.

It’s the perfect escape from the ordinary and you´ll be surrounded by centuries-old architecture and the joyful sounds of Spanish foklk music. Whether you’re a food lover, a cultural explorer, or simply someone looking for a unique travel experience, this festival has something for everyone. It’s an opportunity to experience authentic Spain in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and you’ll leave with memories of a place where the love for food and tradition runs deep.

EUROACE´S Requena Activity

Each February we organise a cultural activity to Requena to visit this very same festival and try all of the cold meats and wines like stated above. If you´re interested in joining and would like to sign up, please send us an email at euroace@euroace.net or a Whatsapp at  +34 699 79 57 51.