GREGORIO MARTÍNEZ, Spain

Situated in the Iregua Valley of La Rioja Alta, the estate spans 120ha with 40ha currently under vine. The vineyards lie between the villages of Nalda, Sorzano and Entrena, sitting at an altitude of 700m and oriented towards the north in a microclimate that benefits from the protection of the nearby Moncalvillo and Camero mountain ranges (reflected in the magnificent centenary oak trees that adorn the property). The cooler, high-altitude location means that harvests typically start in mid-October and sometimes extend into November. The deep soils are primarily composed of thick red clay, alluvial sand, pebbles and sedimentary rock.

Viticulture

Gregorio Martínez’s vineyards are planted with up to five different clones of Tempranillo, which dominates the estate. Mazuelo (Carignan) and Viura each cover around two hectares. The vines endure extreme climatic conditions due to the altitude and northern exposure, making late-ripening varieties like Mazuelo particularly challenging to cultivate successfully. All grapes are hand-harvested into small 15kg crates, emphasising careful selection and minimal intervention.

Winemaking

Since 2009, under the direction of head winemaker Ricardo Cantera, the estate has undergone significant evolution, particularly with the introduction of the Finca Gregorio Martínez range. Cantera favors working with very low quantities of sulfur to preserve freshness and purity. Notably, malolactic fermentation occurs simultaneously with skin contact in the same tank, a rare practice that enhances natural vibrancy and imparts distinctive wild herb aromas. The Finca Gregorio Martínez range includes a clean, lively white Viura; a pale, fresh rosé crafted from Tempranillo; and single-varietal red wines made from Tempranillo and Mazuelo. The wines combine bright acidity, finesse, and aromatic complexity that reflect the cool, elevated terroir of the estate.