May, the month of flowers – And of wine –

May awakens, bold and unapologetic. April’s rains have left behind canvases splashed with color.

A blanket of flowers covers the fields surrounding our vineyards, displaying their full exuberance.

May is widely known as “The Month of Flowers.” Fields filled with vibrant colors and aromas leave an indelible mark on our memories, lingering in our everyday lives.

These aromas also “bloom” when tasting a wine. In the world of wine, one of the aromatic families we can detect is the floral family.

Floral notes typically originate from primary aromas—those derived from the grape variety. On the other hand, secondary aromas, which develop during fermentation, usually do not include floral notes. Finally, tertiary aromas, characteristic of aging, can also reveal floral hints.

When we talk about a wine’s floral character, it doesn’t mean essences or aromas have been added. It’s simply the result of chemical coincidences that the brain interprets through the chemoreceptors in the nasal passages, transmitting these sensations to the olfactory and gustatory systems.

Thus, in winemaking jargon, when we say a wine has “floral aromas,” it means it reminds us of flower petals.

Typically, we associate white and yellow flower fragrances with white wines, while red wines often evoke perfumes reminiscent of red-petaled flowers.

Each grape variety contains unique aromas, and every wine can showcase distinct floral notes.

Can you identify which varieties remind you of which flowers?

If you haven’t yet mastered detecting floral aromas in wine, we’ll give you some tips to help you become a “pro-level taster” the next time you uncork a bottle with friends.

Mayo, el mes de las flores - Y del vino -
EM Mayo, el mes de las flores
  • Chardonnay:
    This variety, originally from Burgundy, is highly floral and fruity, presenting itself as sensual and creamy with notes of linden, acacia, honeysuckle, or verbena. You can find these nuances and many more in both our EM Young Chardonnay and our EM Barrel-Fermented Chardonnay.
  • Moscatel:
    Rooted in the Mediterranean since ancient times, Moscatel, as a terpenic variety, showcases its full splendor in what feels like an explosion of aromas. Some of these notes include linden, rose, and jasmine, with orange blossom taking center stage, filling the glass with captivating sensations. Our EM Moscatel de la Marina is a perfect example of this.
  • Sauvignon Blanc:
    One of the most expressive varieties in the glass, with vibrant and citrusy aromas that evoke spring and the joy of life. Jasmine, freshly cut grass, elderflower, and almond blossom are just some of the nuances that “make themselves known” and can be discovered in EM La Tremenda Blanco.
  • Pinot Noir:
    A synonym for pure delicacy, reminiscent of lily petals, violet, and cherry blossom. Did you know that our EM Pinot Noir was one of the first single-varietals created in Spain with this type of grape?
  • Petit Verdot:
    With small berries, it is one of the varieties with the longest ripening cycle, hence its name “Little Green.” Dried rose petals and violet are some of the nuances it suggests. Our single-varietal EM Petit Verdot will surprise you, without a doubt!
  • Merlot:
    In this type of grape, we find fruit and freshness. Notes reminiscent of violet or mint will captivate us in our EM Monastrell-Merlot.
  • Shiraz:
    Although it can also be written as “Syrah”, it is elegant, like that evening dress that never fails. Powerful and aromatic, a true reflection of violet.
  • Monastrell:
    It is the living expression of our Mediterranean and its landscapes. It transports us to its trails and scrublands, where rosemary, thyme, and wild herbs are the undisputed protagonists. Like good twins, EM Estrecho and EM Las Quebradas are similar, yes, but completely different from each other, exemplifying this perfectly.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon:
    One of the quintessential queen varieties. Vigorous, quite serious, and powerful. Fern or mint are some of its floral nuances. You will find this powerful variety alongside Monastrell, Shiraz, and Merlot in our EM Santa Rosa.
EM Mayo, el mes de las flores

Now that we are “pro-level tasters,” all that’s left is to grab a bottle of these varieties… and impress your friends!