Marqués de Cáceres: Mastering Rioja Winemaking Excellence

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Discover how Marqués de Cáceres combines terroir, tradition, and innovation to create award-winning wines in Rioja.

Introduction

Marqués de Cáceres stands as a beacon of winemaking excellence in the heart of Rioja. With its vineyards nestled in the prestigious regions of Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa, particularly around Cenicero, this winery has built a reputation for producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area. Founded over five decades ago by Enrique Forner, Marqués de Cáceres blends traditional techniques with modern innovation to craft wines that consistently impress connoisseurs worldwide.

Terroir and Vineyard Practices

The vineyards of Marqués de Cáceres boast vines that are more than 70 years old, thriving at high altitudes where conditions are optimal for grape cultivation. The primary grape varieties cultivated here are Tempranillo and Viura, both known for their exceptional flavor profiles. The winery emphasizes precise grape selection and careful harvesting aligned with a meticulous calendar to ensure optimal ripeness and structural complexity in each vintage.

• Vines situated at high altitudes contribute to greater flavor concentration.
• The combination of old vines enhances the quality and character of the grapes.
• Sustainable vineyard practices support environmental stewardship.

Winemaking Techniques

Marqués de Cáceres has a storied history that includes collaborations with renowned figures like Bordeaux consultant Émile Peynaud, who helped establish rigorous winemaking standards. Key techniques include:

• Cold maceration for enhanced aromatic extraction.
• Careful aging in French oak barrels to enrich flavor without overshadowing the fruit’s natural brightness.
• Long maceration periods to fully capture the nuanced characteristics of each grape variety.

These methods culminate in wines that prioritize aromatic brightness, ensuring that every bottle reflects both the terroir and the expertise behind it.

Innovative Approaches

Under the leadership of Cristina Forner, Marqués de Cáceres continues to push boundaries within the industry. The winery has embraced modern sustainability practices:

• Transitioning to renewable energy sources.
• Reducing water consumption significantly.
  This commitment has earned them certification as a Sustainable Winery for Climate Protection, showcasing their dedication not only to quality wine but also to responsible environmental practices.

Award-Winning Wines

The prowess of Marqués de Cáceres is evident through its recent accolades at prestigious competitions like The Rioja Masters 2024, where two wines received Gold medals:

1. Gaudium 2020 (100% Tempranillo) – This blockbuster red is celebrated for its concentrated black fruit flavors balanced with notes of toast and chocolate, making it a perfect companion for hearty dishes.
2. La Halconera Maturana 2021 (100% Maturana) – A rare gem showcasing intense flavors of cherries and blackcurrants complemented by spices, ideal for pairing with barbecued lamb seasoned with rosemary and garlic.

Conclusion

Marqués de Cáceres exemplifies what it means to be a leader in winemaking within the Rioja region. Their dedication to blending tradition with innovative practices ensures that they will continue to produce exceptional wines for generations to come. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to exploring Spanish wines, Marqués de Cáceres offers something remarkable worth savoring.

Photo by Erika Fletcher on Unsplash