BODEGAS DOMINIO DE CAIR, Spain

This is a project built on heritage vines, high-altitude terroir, and precision winemaking, aimed at expressing the full potential of Ribera Tempranillo. Situated in La Aguilera, one of the region’s most sought-after subzones, Cair works with vineyards reaching up to 100 years old, planted at 800–950 meters above sea level. These extreme conditions deliver naturally low yields, vibrant freshness, and outstanding complexity—hallmarks of the Cair style. The winemaking philosophy is a balance of modern elegance and old-world structure: manual harvest, double berry selection, and aging in new French and American oak deliver purity, depth, and polish across the range. Critically, Cair isn’t just about power—it’s about finesse. Their wines consistently receive praise from top critics including Tim Atkin MW, who recognized Dominio de Cair as a Second Growth estate in his 2023 Ribera del Duero classification. From the accessible, juicy Cair Cuvée, to the ultra-premium Pendón de La Aguilera, this is a portfolio that is exceptional at every level.

Viticulture

The winery manages approximately 120 hectares of vineyards, both owned and controlled, situated in La Aguilera, Quintana del Pidio, and Moradillo de Roa. These vineyards are located at altitudes ranging from 830 to 950 meters above sea level and feature diverse soil types, including clay-limestone, sandy, and gravelly soils. The vineyards are meticulously monitored throughout the growing cycle, with a focus on selecting only the best grape clusters. The vines are cultivated with care, adhering to a philosophy of rational and environmentally respectful viticulture.

Winemaking

Grapes are hand-harvested in small boxes to ensure their integrity during transport. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes are cooled in a refrigeration chamber to control temperature and humidity. A double sorting process is employed: first, the grape clusters are manually selected, followed by individual berry selection, ensuring that only the highest quality grapes proceed to vinification. The winery's modern facilities are designed to provide optimal conditions for winemaking. It is equipped with oak vats and small-capacity stainless steel tanks. For aging, the winery uses a selection of new French and American oak barrels sourced from renowned cooperages. The overarching goal is to evoke emotions and provide enjoyment with each bottle opened.