Wines and wineries of La Rioja Alta, land of vineyards and history

The world’s largest concentration of century-old wineries is located in the westernmost part of the Rioja DOCa, known as the La Rioja Alta. This and other heritage sites make this area a a worldwide benchmark for wine tourism.

In La Rioja Alta we find the representation of the history of our land and wine united.From the Barrio de la Estación in Haro, an obligatory stop to enjoy the wine architecture and centenary wineries, passing by the monasteries of San Millán de la Cogolla, Suso and Yuso, catalogued by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites and where the first texts written in Spanish and Basque were found…

The land is characterized by a variety of soil typesThe soil is composed of clayey-calcareous, clayey-ferrous and alluvial soils. The soils are divided between calcareous-clay, ferrous-clay and alluvial. Combined with the quality of the grapevines and the climate the area’s semi-arid Atlantic continental climate, mild winter and summer temperatures and moderate precipitation contribute to create one of the most popular and recognized wines in the world.

The higher altitude areas delay grape ripening and the grapes show more acidity, freshness, lower alcohol content and great aging potential. At lower altitudes the fruit profile is riper and is perfect for softer wines, ideal to be enjoyed on the spot.