The Soul of Albufera Rice in Every Grain.
Under the radiant sky of Valencia’s Albufera, where rice fields blend with the horizon, a silent legend was born: J. Sendra, a name that has been synonymous with excellence in rice cultivation since 1926. Its story is not just that of a company but of a family that transformed a humble cereal into an emblem of Mediterranean gastronomy.
Origins: The Seed of a Legacy
It all began with Ramón Sendra, a visionary farmer who, in the 1920s, committed to cultivating rice in the fertile soils of La Albufera. His obsession with quality and respect for natural cycles laid the foundation for a tradition that endures to this day. Although Ramón did not live to see the ultimate recognition of his work—the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Valencia Rice was established in 2001, shortly before his passing—his legacy lives on in every grain harvested under the J. Sendra name.
Products: Rice That Speaks of Its Land
J. Sendra is renowned for its Senia variety, a short-grain round rice that has gained worldwide fame for its creamy texture and exceptional ability to absorb flavors—perfect for paellas and meloso rice dishes. Grown in fields that follow the natural rhythms of the seasons, this rice not only meets the strict standards of the PDO but is also considered one of the finest in the world for traditional cuisine.
But innovation has never been absent. In collaboration with the Valencian Institute of Agricultural Research, the company recently developed the Carnaroli J. Sendra variety—an Italian rice adapted to Valencian soils, perfect for risottos and haute cuisine dishes. A testament to how tradition and modernity can coexist in harmony.
Protected Designation of Origin: The Seal of Authenticity
The Valencia PDO Rice is not just a title; it is a guarantee. Only 15% of the rice produced in the region earns this seal, which certifies everything from the grain’s origin to its processing. J. Sendra not only meets these standards but exceeds them: its crops follow sustainable practices, minimizing chemical use and focusing on preserving La Albufera’s biodiversity.
A Future Written in Grains of Rice
Today, J. Sendra is not just a small family business based on Calle San Luis (Valencia); it is a global benchmark. Its rice reaches Michelin-starred restaurants and homes that cherish authenticity. In a world where fast food is gaining ground, this company reminds us that true luxury lies in patience—in waiting for La Albufera’s waters to nourish the grain, in harvesting under the Valencian sun, and in keeping alive a tradition that spans nearly a century.
As Ramón Sendra used to say: “Rice is not made, it is cared for.” And in that, J. Sendra remains a master.
