Born in Hondón de las Nieves, Pepe Bernabeu is a lifelong farmer who has become a prominent name in regional agriculture. He has led the Vinalopó Table Grape Protected Designation of Origin Regulatory Council for thirty-five years, guiding both promotion and certification efforts that shape the region’s grape industry.
Dishes with distinctly traditional origins at the next event “Menjars de la Terra”
As a council, the organization concentrates on two core activities: promotion and certification. Both play a pivotal role in outlining the product’s roadmap and ensuring that the region’s grapes stand out in a crowded market.
For the council, the real measure of success is seeing the product evolve into a recognizable, differentiated brand both nationally and internationally. In an era of globalization and sameness, the region’s table grapes have managed to sustain demand and market presence. That resilience, said to be a challenge for small-scale, artisanal producers, is viewed as a key achievement for the community.
There is always more to accomplish, especially in an industry as dynamic as this. The central belief is in the product, the landscape, and the people who make it possible.
Quality and reliable data matter. The structure here resembles that of 2023, with registrations holding steady after challenging years. Yet the focus remains on quality over quantity, a principle that guides the council’s approach to production and marketing.
Indeed, the broader agricultural-food sector faces similar realities. Solutions are needed to keep vital activities thriving for society, and the council recognizes this broader responsibility beyond its own product lines.
Water scarcity remains a structural concern in the region, along with the broader impacts of weather on agriculture. Fortunately, the Júcar-Vinalopó transfer project has consolidated water resources for now, providing security for ongoing production and keeping a critical resource within reach.
Bagged table grapes from the Vinalopó region are set to shine at the upcoming Menjars de la Terra event, with menus highlighting the best offerings from local producers.
The consumer’s role is essential: the challenge is to identify products that are properly certified and clearly labeled at the point of sale. This clarity helps distinguish Vinalopó grapes from other regional options and meets a key aim of the Protected Designation of Origin system.
Linking gastronomy with primary production is a vital initiative, and the designation is a powerful symbol of that connection. Grapes bearing a Protected Designation of Origin or a Protected Geographical Indication carry a distinct identity that resonates with both chefs and shoppers.
Vinalopó grapes are known for a particularly delicate skin that enhances their gastronomic appeal. The variety profile, including Aledo with its balanced sweetness, complements late-summer harvests and pairs well with a range of dishes. The grape’s natural flavors invite diverse uses—from dessert to sauces and beyond—and the designation guarantees consistent quality across all uses.
When choosing, consumers should seek certified products at the point of sale. From there, confidence in quality extends to all forms of consumption, whether enjoyed fresh, used as an accompaniment, or incorporated into more complex dishes.