Jerez de la Frontera - The most Spanish city in Spain
Introduction to Jerez
So where is Jerez? Nestled in southern Spain’s Andalusia region, not far from Seville and Cadiz, this city is famous for three things – sherry, flamenco, and horses – and after spending two weeks here, we can honestly say it’s one of the most Spanish places we’ve ever been. It’s lively yet relaxed, steeped in history but with a modern edge, and it feels refreshingly local. In this blog (and our latest podcast episode), we’ll share our favorite experiences – from the smoky tabancos to elegant bodegas and unforgettable performances.
Flamenco dancing in the local tabancos
Jerez is the heartbeat of flamenco, and we were lucky enough to experience it up close in the most authentic way – at the local tabancos. One of our favorite memories was watching our friend, the incredible Carmen Moncado, perform at Tabanco A La Feria. The energy in the room was electric – sherry glasses clinking, hands clapping, and feet pounding. Another must-visit is El Pasaje Tabanco, an atmospheric little bar where the flamenco is raw and passionate, and the sherry flows just as freely. It’s impossible not to get swept up in the rhythm.
More about the tabancos in Jerez
If you haven’t heard of tabancos before, think of them as a mix between a wine bar, tapas joint, and a slice of Jerez tradition. These rustic little spots are where locals gather to sip sherry, share small plates, and often enjoy live music. They’re casual, affordable, and feel wonderfully untouched by mass tourism – just wooden barrels, handwritten menus, and a warm welcome. Each tabanco has its own personality, and wandering from one to another is half the fun.
Bodega Lustau – the Cathedrals of Wine
No visit to Jerez would be complete without a bodega tour, and Bodega Lustau is a standout. Known as the “Cathedrals of Wine” because of its soaring arches and serene cellars, it’s where some of the region’s finest sherry is crafted. The tour takes you through the whole process – from the grapes to the barrels – explained in a simple, fascinating way. Sherry may seem a little mysterious, but Lustau makes it easy to understand and, more importantly, a joy to taste.
The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art
Jerez is also famous for its beautiful Andalusian horses, and the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art is the place to see them in all their glory. Their show is a mix of elegance and power – perfectly groomed horses performing graceful movements to music. It’s part dressage, part theatre, and totally captivating. Even if you’re not a “horse person,” it’s hard not to be impressed by the skill and connection between rider and horse.
Our time in Jerez was everything we hoped for and more – two weeks of sherry, flamenco, tapas, and sunshine, with hardly another tourist in sight. We loved every minute, from sipping wine in atmospheric tabancos to watching Carmen light up the stage and being wowed by Andalusian horses. If you’re looking for a city that feels genuinely Spanish, Jerez is it – authentic, welcoming, and brimming with character. We can’t wait to go back.