Exploring Rioja Vega: A Journey into Winemaking Excellence

Cafe soleil team tasting wine before its finished.

At Cafe Soleil, our passion for exceptional wines drives us to seek out the finest vineyards and cellars. Our recent visit to Rioja Vega, a historic winery established in 1882, was an enlightening experience that deepened our appreciation for the art of winemaking.

A Warm Welcome and Rich Heritage

Nestled amidst 70 hectares of lush vineyards cultivating Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Graciano grapes, Rioja Vega offers a picturesque setting for wine enthusiasts. We were greeted with warm hospitality and embarked on a guided tour that delved into the winery's storied past and commitment to quality.

The Winemaking Process: Tradition Meets Innovation

Our tour provided an in-depth look at the winemaking process, where traditional methods harmoniously blend with modern techniques. One notable aspect is the clarification process. Historically, egg whites were used to clarify wines, but Rioja Vega has embraced a more sustainable and vegan-friendly approach by utilizing pea and potato proteins. This ensures clarity without compromising flavor, reflecting the winery's innovative spirit.

Tasting the Essence of Rioja

The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the tasting session. We had the pleasure of sampling the Tempranillo Blanco Reserva 2018, distinguished as the only white wine from Rioja to be selected among 'the best 10 Rioja wines'. This wine tells the story of Rioja Vega's trust in a little-known grape variety, Tempranillo Blanco, requiring patience and time to show all it can provide. A wine with a long and promising future.

Sustainable Practices and Commitment to Quality

Rioja Vega's dedication to sustainability was evident throughout our visit. After the initial pressing, the remaining grape solids undergo a final press to extract every drop of wine. The leftover materials are then sent to other alcohol producers, ensuring that nothing goes to waste—a commendable practice that aligns with our values at Cafe Soleil.

Bringing the Experience to Cafe Soleil

Our journey through Rioja Vega has inspired us to share these exceptional wines with you. We are excited to feature selections like the Tempranillo Blanco Reserva 2018 at Cafe Soleil, offering you a taste of Rioja's rich heritage and innovative winemaking.

Join us at Cafe Soleil to explore these remarkable wines and immerse yourself in the stories behind each bottle. Cheers to new discoveries and the joy of fine wine!