If there is one thing that embodies the character of Liébana, besides its mountains, it is orujo. Here, the spirit distilled from grape pomace is not merely a drink: it is part of the local identity, a bond between generations and the perfect excuse to gather together and celebrate.
But Liébana is much more than orujo. In recent years, the valley’s wineries have powerfully revived a winemaking tradition that stretches back centuries, producing mountain wines with plenty of personality. Today, exploring the vineyards and distilleries has become one of the essential experiences for anyone visiting the area.
A valley with the taste of history
Viticulture in Liébana has a long history. Thanks to its microclimate, sheltered by the Picos de Europa and blessed with drier, milder air than the rest of Cantabria, vineyards have flourished here for centuries. As early as the Middle Ages, the monks of Santo Toribio were producing wine for the monastery and for the pilgrims who came to see the Lignum Crucis.
That tradition has never disappeared. Today, the villages of Potes, Cillorigo, Cabezón de Liébana and Pesaguero still preserve small vineyards that drape the sunny slopes, and many families continue to make orujo and wine with pride, skill and deep local knowledge.
Orujo: the liquid soul of liébana
Liébana orujo is made by distilling the remains of the grapes after the wine has been produced: skins, pips and stalks. In the old days, every household with vines made its own orujo in the family still, a small copper device in which it was slowly distilled over a wood fire.
The result is a pure, strong and aromatic spirit, enjoyed here with respect and always after a good meal. But the tradition has evolved beyond the classic clear orujo, and today there are many different varieties to try.
The heart of this tradition beats strongest at the Orujo Festival, held every November in Potes. For one weekend, the village fills with music, fired-up stills and tastings. The Orujero Mayor is chosen, and the streets are scented with wood smoke, grapes and spirits. It is one of those festivals well worth experiencing at least once
The wines of Liébana: the rebirth of a tradition
Although orujo has always taken centre stage, Lebaniego wine is enjoying a real revival. Under the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) Vino de la Tierra de Liébana, several wineries produce mountain wines using local grape varieties such as Mencía, Palomino and Godello
The result is a range of wines with real character: intense reds, fresh rosés and whites with fruity notes, all shaped by altitude, climate and the mineral qualities of the soil.
Liébana’s wineries have adapted to modern times without losing their artisan essence. Many offer guided visits where you can walk through the vineyards, learn about the production process and, of course, enjoy a glass while taking in the views across the valley.
Wineries and distilleries worth visiting
There are several experiences we recommend to our guests:
- Bodega Picos de Cabariezo (Cabariezo): a unique artisan winery and distillery offering guided visits that explain both the winemaking and distillation process, followed by a tasting of wines and liqueurs accompanied by local produce.
- Orujos y Miel Martínez de Cos (Potes): an artisan distillery renowned for the quality of its orujo, winner of the Alquitara de Oro 2021 award, noted for its traditional methods and the purity of its ingredients, including its own honey and milk from freely grazing cows. In season, you can also buy their tomatoes.
- Bodegas Cayo: a family-run project born from a love of the land and of wine, in the heart of Liébana, Cantabria. Its story spans several generations who have worked the local vines and wines, recovering traditional methods and adapting them with passion to the present day. Every bottle reflects respect for the land, artisan dedication and a deep bond with the mountains.
- Orujos El Coterón (Argüébanes): a distillery focused on the traditional production of orujo. Visits are available.
As all of them are only a few kilometres from one another, it is easy to plan a day out following the valley’s wine and orujo route while enjoying both the scenery and the flavours of the land
The landscape can be tasted too
One of the things that most surprises visitors to Liébana is how clearly the landscape is reflected in the flavour of its products. The grapes grow on sun-facing terraces between mountains and rivers, and you can taste that in the wine. Orujo, meanwhile, preserves the essence of artisan work, wood fire and time.
Visiting the wineries and distilleries is not only a gastronomic experience: it is also a way of getting to know the local culture from within, chatting with producers, understanding their craft and savouring the result.
And the views from many of these places are remarkable: vineyards stretching across the slopes, the sound of cowbells in the meadows and, in the distance, the Picos de Europa reminding us exactly where we are.
Tips for enjoying the experience
- Book in advance: some visits require a prior appointment.
- Do not drive after tastings: local taxis are available, or you can combine the visit with a nearby meal.
- Pair the flavours: Liébana’s wines and orujos go beautifully with cheeses, cured meats or cocido lebaniego.
- Buy local: taking home a bottle of orujo or wine is a way of supporting the valley’s economy and traditions.
A toast to Liébana
Orujo and wine are part of Liébana’s soul. Behind every bottle there is history, effort and landscape. Visiting a distillery or winery here is not just an excursion: it is a journey to the roots of this land.
From the hotel, we can help you plan a wine and orujo route, recommend the visits that best suit your interests or arrange a special tasting at wineries such as Orulisa, Sierra del Oso or Picos de Cabariezo.
Because in Liébana, every glass tells a story… and every one tastes of mountains, tradition and hospitality.
