Roll out the barrels – move into a Spanish bodega

Cloaked in vineyards and home to over 30 operational bodegas, Jerez is the aristocratic seat of sherry. This southwestern corner of Spain has exported its fortified wine for centuries and today the top names in the sherry world from Domecq to the makers of Tio Pepe, González Byass, occupy prime spots in the heart of the cobbled old city centre. Whilst most bodegas continue in their art, some have been converted into high specification loft apartments, and the results are quite spectacular.

Jerez is prime wine producing territory. The chalky ‘albariza’ soil is ideal for the Palamino grapes which form the basis of much of the sherry, the strong sun ups the grapes’ sugar content enhancing the flavour and it also keeps the bodegas nice and humid. These wonderful huge cathedral-like open spaces with high vaulted ceilings are stacked with barrels of maturing licquor, unless of course the sherry has moved out and the developers have moved in.

Chris Mercer, Director of Jerez property specialists Mercers, comments, “These iconic buildings are very much the soul of the city, centrally located and aesthetically attractive they make for ideal pied à terres and many of our clients are really taken with them. The high ceilings allow for some interesting floorplans with mezzanine sleeping areas whilst many of the original features from wooden beamed ceilings to exposed stonework are lovingly retained. There will only ever be a finite supply of these prized properties and as well as making a fine second home, they make excellent investment sense.”

Mercers is currently offering a centrally located 137m² two bedroom two bathroom apartment within a recently converted bodega. Displaying one of the most interesting fusions of new and old within the historic medina walls of Jerez, the clever conversion conceals modern, minimalist interiors juxtaposed against classic Andaluz architecture. The building itself dates back to the 18th century and is a significant landmark on Jerez’s streetscape. Accessed via a soaring atrium, the property is a true party palace, fully open-plan with a chic kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances, both bedrooms (one on a mezzanine floor) are en-suite and the double height ceilings are accented by a traditional wooden roof structure. Outdoors there is a communal pool with sunlounging areas and shower with changing facility.

Price 329,000 euros.

For more information, visit spanishproperty.co.uk.