La Cantera vineyard where Solomazuelo comes from was planted by my grandfather Justo Casado just over 30 years ago on a 1-hectare plot that is ideal for this variety: sandy clay soil with lots of pebbles, perfect for controlling the vigor and fertility characteristic of the variety. It is located on a plateau protected by kermes oak trees around its entire perimeter except for the north side, which allows the prevailing winds in the area to enter, especially the north wind, a great ally, together with moderate vigor, in combating powdery mildew, the main cryptogamic disease to which Carignan is very susceptible.

Mazuelo is a variety that has historically been part of the great wines of Rioja, being largely responsible for their longevity. At La Cantera, it is planted in bush vines, at an altitude of over 550 meters, in clay soil with abundant pebbles and low fertility. The viticulture used seeks to obtain quality grapes; low yields of around 4,000 kg/ha, basal leaf removal on the northeast side, optimal phenolic ripening of skin and seeds, without reaching excessive degrees. The production process seeks to be as respectful as possible to the wine's own characteristics, reducing exogenous contributions to a minimum.

The wine obtained after aging in clay jars is much rounder and more refined than those aged in wooden barrels, revealing the purest expression of the variety. With this wine, I have the opportunity to carry out a very educational project to raise awareness of the characteristics of the variety with the aim of promoting it within the DO to counteract the trend towards reducing the area under cultivation by uprooting existing historic vineyards.

Tasting Notes