Why it matters
The producer
A bend of the Ebro frames Finca Valpiedra in Fuenmayor, Rioja Alta. The estate comprises 80 hectares divided into nine plots of loam and limestone soil. It belongs to Spain's Grandes Pagos de España association, and the Rioja regulatory body describes it as the only Rioja winery in that organization.
For the Finca Valpiedra red, grapes come from the oldest vineyards planted in soils with high clay content. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, followed by maturation in French oak barrels.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
The vineyards occupy three terraces descending toward the Ebro. Apart from a few older parcels, most vines were planted in the mid 1970s. The terraced layout places older and newer vineyard parcels within one estate as the land falls toward the river.
Wines to know
The range in view
The listed range includes Cantos de Valpiedra 2021 and Finca Valpiedra Reserva 2018, both red wines. For the Finca Valpiedra red, grapes come from the oldest vineyards with high clay content. The wine ferments in stainless steel and matures in French oak.