The slope is steep. The soil, stony and clay-limestone in composition, retains very little water, forcing the vines to work hard to find it. That struggle is what gives the grapes their character. The vines that grow here, more than 50 years old, know this well: their roots have spent decades finding their way through this south-facing hillside, where yields are limited to just 4,000 kilograms per hectare. It is a demanding environment that produces a Viura with freshness, precision and a distinctive mineral personality.

This is a hillside that we have worked for generations. A vineyard we have seen evolve over the years, cared for with patience and dedication, and one that continues to speak of the land from which we come. The wine’s name is a tribute to our father, the man who believed in this plot and passed on to his children a deep devotion to caring for it.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully selected at the winery. Fermentation and ageing take place over approximately eight months on fine lees, combining 500-litre oak barrels and concrete amphorae. Two different materials, one shared purpose: to bring texture and complexity while preserving freshness and identity.

In the Glass

Bright straw-yellow in colour. The nose reveals aromas of quince and pear, accompanied by delicate notes of vanilla and elegant toasted nuances. On the palate it is fresh, light and well-balanced, with citrus and mineral flavours supported by a vibrant acidity that extends the finish. The aftertaste is long and saline, leaving a clean and honest impression.

Best enjoyed between 14°C and 16°C, opening the bottle one hour before serving and pouring into a large wine glass. It pairs particularly well with seafood salad, shellfish, grilled fish, game birds and aged cheese.

A Wine That Will Not Always Be Available

DOCa Rioja has recognised this plot as a Viñedo Singular (Single Vineyard), and Tim Atkin awarded it 93 points in his Rioja 2025 Special Report. Yet beyond these accolades, Las Laderas de José Luis Blanco is only produced in vintages when the grapes achieve exceptional quality. It will not be available every year. This decision reflects our philosophy: respecting the vineyard, the vintage and the story behind every bottle.

Flowers that don’t look like flowers

The vine does not bloom like a rosebush. Its flowers are tiny, without showy petals, grouped in small clusters known as inflorescences. What we see in the vineyard these weeks are thousands of minuscule green-yellow spheres—flower buds—that open by shedding their caps and exposing their stamens to the air.

It is not visually spectacular, but those who know the vineyard understand what is at stake during these days.

Why does it matter so much?

Flowering is the bridge between the vine and the future bunch. Each pollinated flower becomes a grape. If the flower does not set—due to cold, heavy rain, excessive wind, or extreme heat—the berry does not form, and the harvest can be seriously reduced.

The winegrower cannot do much during these days. Only observe and respect the plant’s rhythm. It is a moment that requires special attention.

Our vineyards these days

This May has brought contrasts. A cool and sunny start, with typical spring temperatures, has given way to an unusual heatwave for this time of year. In just a few days, the thermometer has risen by almost 20 degrees, creating conditions that are not the most typical during flowering.

Fruit set is progressing, and the first berries are beginning to take shape. But with this early heat, walks through the vineyard are not just for observation—they are also for searching. Bending down, separating leaves, looking closely at what cannot be seen at a glance.

Monitoring is also part of the job

In one of our recent inspections, we found what you see in the photo: a grapevine moth larva (Lobesia botrana) nestled among the newly set berries. A small, almost invisible finding, yet with the potential to cause damage if not detected in time.

The grapevine moth is one of the most significant vineyard pests in Spain. Its first generation coincides exactly with flowering, attacking floral organs and newly formed berries. Detecting it early makes all the difference.

That is why being in the vineyard every day, with eyes wide open, is an essential part of the craft. Knowing each plot well, being present, touching the plants with your hands. When something is detected in time, it can be addressed with good judgment. When it is overlooked, the problem grows unseen.

At Dominio de Berzal, we closely monitor the evolution of each vineyard during these weeks. Not because the situation is worrying—it is not—but because this is how we understand our work: with eyes open and feet on the ground.

Wine begins here

When you uncork a bottle of Dominio de Berzal, at any time of year, what you have in your glass began on days like these. On a May morning, with the sun already high over the vineyards of Rioja Alavesa, hands inspecting cluster by cluster, and thousands of tiny flowers slowly turning into grapes. We like to remember it. And we like to share it with you.

If there’s one area that has truly earned its place as a “comfort zone” (in the best sense) for wine enthusiasts, it’s Rioja Alavesa. But what makes it so special that it’s always a safe
bet to order a glass from this region?

Balance: its hallmark

Rioja Alavesa is a land of contrasts. The freshness of the Cantabrian influence meets the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, and that climatic tension is what gives its wines such
balance. Unlike other regions where wines can be overly powerful or too light, here you find the sweet spot: wines with body and structure, yet with a freshness that invites the
next sip. It’s the kind of wine that never tires the palate—perfect for both a quick bite and a full three-course meal.

Variety for every moment of the day

Another reason this region dominates bar counters is its versatility. Whatever you’re looking for, Rioja Alavesa has an answer:

• If you want something vibrant: the iconic carbonic maceration wine. This traditional young wine is an explosion of fruit and probably the most faithful
  companion to tapas culture.
• If you’re after elegance: wines aged in oak here tend to be very refined. The wood doesn’t overpower the wine—it complements it, allowing the fruit to remain the star.
• If you want something different: the region’s whites, often made with Viura, are enjoying a revival, offering a surprising combination of texture and freshness.

The human touch

What truly makes Rioja Alavesa special is its people. It’s a land of small villages where most wineries are family-run projects. There’s an almost sacred respect for the land and a
way of working that is passed down from generation to generation. When you order a wine from this region, chances are there’s a family behind it who knows every vine personally.

A piece of Rioja Alavesa in your glass

At Dominio de Berzal, we are part of this landscape and this way of understanding winemaking in Baños de Ebro. Our mission is simple: that when you come across one of our bottles in a bar, you feel you’ve made the right choice. From our young carbonic maceration wine to our signature creations, we craft each one with the freshness and
elegance that make this region unique. If you come across us on your next outing, we hope you enjoy the work that the three brothers pour so much care into.

Dominio de Berzal Crianza 2022: depth and elegance

Crianza 2022 comes from vineyards that are over 40 years old, where low yields and highly controlled viticulture allow us to work with grapes of great concentration and balance. The harvest is done by hand, taking care of each bunch from the vineyard to the winery. The wine is then aged for 12 months in French and American oak barrels, where it gains complexity and structure without losing its fruity identity.
The result is a wine with an intense cherry red colour and high intensity, clean and bright, which already shows youth and firmness in the glass. On the nose, even before swirling, there are hints of ripe black fruits accompanied by fine roasted notes. When oxygenated, mineral notes and hints of wild berries appear, integrated with elegant touches of vanilla and cedar from the ageing process. On the palate, it is warm and enveloping from the outset. It is a structured but accessible wine, complex but harmonious.

At the table, the Crianza 2022 reveals its full character. It pairs well with quality cured meats and cheeses, and has a special affinity with grilled meats, traditional roasts and small game dishes. Even oily fish cooked over a fire find a balanced ally in this wine.

This new vintage continues a tradition that has been recognised with several awards. This year, Dominio de Berzal Crianza 2022 was awarded the gold medal at the Brussels World Competition. The 2021 vintage also won a medal at the same competition in 2021.

Dominio de Berzal Carbonic Maceration 2025: energy turned into wine

In contrast to the pause of the Crianza, the Maceración Carbónica 2025 represents the celebration of the new cycle. It comes from several of the winery’s estates and is made using the traditional carbonic maceration method, a historic technique in Rioja Alavesa that preserves the purest and most fruity expression of the grape.

In the glass, it has a bright red colour with vivid violet hues, reflecting its youth. The nose is frank and expressive, dominated by aromas of red berries such as strawberries, redcurrants and raspberries. When swirled, delicate floral notes appear alongside hints of forest fruit and a subtle touch of liquorice. On the palate, it is silky and fresh. The tannins are soft, making it an accessible, straightforward and very pleasant wine to drink.

Its fresh, fruity profile makes it particularly versatile at the table. It is perfect for appetisers, cold meats and informal meals, but also pairs well with rice dishes, grilled fish, semi-cured cheeses and both white and red meats.

Same origin, two ways forward

The Crianza 2022 and the Maceración Carbónica 2025 are two different interpretations of the same land. One reflects the passage of time and the elegance that ageing brings; the other, the energy of the Rioja Alavesa tradition.

At Dominio de Berzal, we continue to follow a path that began decades ago. It is a long journey, built on experience, respect for the vineyard and a passion for wine. Each new vintage is a step forward. And each step confirms that tradition does not stand still: it evolves, renews itself and continues.

Each vintage has its own personality. Each harvest demands respect, observation and experience. This is how tradition and renewal intertwine at Dominio de Berzal.

Dominio de Berzal Crianza 2022: depth and elegance

Crianza 2022 comes from vineyards that are over 40 years old, where low yields and highly controlled viticulture allow us to work with grapes of great concentration and balance. The harvest is done by hand, taking care of each bunch from the vineyard to the winery. The wine is then aged for 12 months in French and American oak barrels, where it gains complexity and structure without losing its fruity identity.

The result is a wine with an intense cherry red colour and high intensity, clean and bright, which already shows youth and firmness in the glass. Even before swirling, the nose reveals hints of ripe black fruits accompanied by fine roasted notes. When oxygenated, mineral notes and hints of wild berries appear, integrated with elegant touches of vanilla and cedar from the ageing process. On the palate, it is warm and enveloping from the outset. It is a structured but accessible wine, complex but harmonious.

At the table, the Crianza 2022 reveals its full character. It pairs well with quality cured meats and aged cheeses, and has a special affinity with grilled meats, traditional roasts and small game dishes. Even oily fish cooked over a fire find a balanced ally in this wine.

This new vintage continues a tradition recognised with several awards. This year, Dominio de Berzal Crianza 2022 was awarded the gold medal at the Brussels World Competition. The 2021 vintage also won a medal at the same competition in 2021.

Dominio de Berzal Carbonic Maceration 2025: energy turned into wine

In contrast to the Crianza, the Maceración Carbónica 2025 represents the celebration of the new cycle. It comes from several of the winery’s estates and is made using the traditional carbonic maceration method, a historic technique in Rioja Alavesa that preserves the purest and most fruity expression of the grape.

In the glass, it is bright red with vivid violet hues, reflecting its youth. The nose is frank and expressive, dominated by aromas of red berries such as strawberries, redcurrants, and raspberries. When swirled, delicate floral notes appear alongside hints of forest fruit and a subtle touch of licorice. On the palate, it is silky and fresh. The tannins are soft, making it an accessible, straightforward, and very pleasant wine to drink.

Its fresh and fruity profile makes it particularly versatile at the table. It is perfect for appetizers, cold cuts, and informal meals, but it also pairs well with rice dishes, grilled fish, semi-cured cheeses, and both white and red meats.

One origin, two ways forward

The Crianza 2022 and the Maceración Carbónica 2025 are two different interpretations of the same land. One reflects the passage of time and the elegance that aging brings; the other, the energy of the Rioja Alavesa tradition.

At Dominio de Berzal, we continue to follow a path that began decades ago. It is a long path, built on experience, respect for the vineyard, and a passion for wine. Each new vintage is a step forward. And each step confirms that tradition does not stand still: it evolves, renews itself, and continues.

Iñigo Berzal, the winery’s winemaker, clarifies this fundamental issue for understanding the quality cycle of our wines.

The importance of the “vegetative pause”
The secret to why the cold does not damage the plant in January, but can be fatal in May, lies in the state of the vine. During the winter, the plant is in vegetative dormancy, asleep or dormant. In this state, the cold does not affect it negatively.

Vegetative dormancy is the winter rest period during which the vine stops growing and ceases visible activity to protect itself from low temperatures. During this phase, the plant enters a state of dormancy where sap stops actively circulating and leaves fall, allowing the vine to concentrate its energy on its woody structures. It is a natural survival response that occurs whenever the plant is dormant, preventing extreme cold from damaging its vital tissues.

This period coincides with the coldest months of the year and usually lasts from late fall to early spring, when rising temperatures reactivate the biological cycle. The importance of this phase lies in the fact that it allows the vine to strengthen and prepare for the next harvest.

However, the scenario changes dramatically when spring arrives. As our winemaker points out: “Spring frosts are not good because the vegetative state is no longer dormant.” At that point, the sap is already flowing and the new shoots are exposed; a sudden drop in temperature would freeze those shoots, compromising the harvest.

The three great benefits of winter

When the cold and snow arrive in moderation, without reaching historic extremes such as those of the famous Filomena storm, it brings us three competitive advantages for wine quality:

Strategic water reserve: Snow is a form of slow irrigation. As it melts slowly, the water penetrates deeply and gradually into the soil, increasing the water reserves that the vines will need to withstand hot summers.

Natural disinfection: Extreme cold acts as a biological “cleaner.” It helps eliminate microorganisms and small insects that live in wood and could survive milder winters, becoming pests when spring arrives.

Wood healing: After pruning, the cold helps the wood heal faster and better, protecting the plant’s structure for the new cycle.

Disinfect, nourish, and strengthen

For Dominio de Berzal, a proper winter is the key to healthy, balanced vines. The cold disinfects, the snowmelt nourishes, and the rest period strengthens. So, the next time you see snow on our vineyards, remember that nature is quietly working away for the next vintage.

A Graciano that invites sharing

From an aromatic point of view, this Graciano displays a very attractive range of flavours: black berries, cherry, salty liquorice and a fresh herbal background. On the palate, it is lively and silky, with a citrus acidity that makes it particularly gastronomic. Its tannins are soft and elegant, with a finish reminiscent of dark chocolate and subtle roasted notes, the result of eight months’ ageing in French oak barrels.

What should you pair Dominio de Berzal’s Graciano with?

This is where this wine truly shines. Its freshness and structure make it the perfect accompaniment to flavourful dishes that are not overly rich:

• Small game and poultry: partridge, quail and pheasant find their ideal balance in Graciano.
• Duck, especially confit or with slightly sweet sauces.
• Mushrooms and seasonal dishes, such as sautéed boletus or mushroom risotto.
• Pink meats, such as suckling lamb or rare beef.
• Cheeses, both cured and semi-cured sheep’s cheeses with character.
• Served at around 17 degrees, the wine expresses itself more fully and accompanies the food without overpowering it.

Discover infinity in a glass

In the glass, Dominio de Berzal’s Graciano displays an intense cherry red colour with a deep rim and a youthful edge that hints at freshness and vitality. It is a visually appealing, lively wine that reflects the character of a demanding variety that has been well cultivated in the vineyard. Its intense colour is a direct invitation to raise your glass and discover what comes next.

Recognised by critics such as Tim Atkin and James Suckling, Dominio de Berzal’s Graciano is a safe bet for those looking for something different in Rioja. A wine with personality, designed to be enjoyed slowly and, above all, to be purchased with the peace of mind that it will always be a good fit at the table.

For these new summer moments, Dominio de Berzal has the perfect company. We select white wines that have a Berzal identity are many nuances that fit in any summer encounter.

A river of whites

Dominio de Berzal Young White 2024.

This young wine is composed of a blend of 90% Viura and 10% Malvasia, has a graduation of 12.5 degrees and has a green, clean and bright colour.

On the nose, aromas of white fruit such as green apple, pear and also pineapple can be appreciated, the freshness is already noticeable on the nose.

On the palate, the wine has a fresh entry due to its good acidity, the volume of the wine is noticeable and its weight due to the work with the lees after the alcoholic fermentation, it has a long aftertaste with sensations of tropical fruit and pear.

Dominio de Berzal Blanco Joven is a wine with a high content of freshness and fruitiness. Its alcoholic fermentation preserves all the primary aromas of the grapes, which evoke, as we have said, citrus fruits.

White Viura and Garnacha Blanca.

The fact that they are single varietal wines made from two different grapes, Viura and Garnacha Blanca, allows those who taste them to appreciate the nuances and characteristics of each of these two varieties. These are very gastronomic wines from the 2022 vintage, which is considered a very good vintage. With their production, the Berzal brothers want to vindicate the different and original white wines.

The plot where the Viura grapes come from is called El Peregigo. It is more than 50 years old. It is a calcareous clay soil. It is located on a hill, facing north, with no slope, in a windy area that helps the vines to ripen during the ripening season. With an altitude of 520 metres, it is in a favourable situation for its growth.

The Garnacha Blanca plot is called Los Barrancos. It is more than ten years old, planted in calcareous clay soil on a slope at an altitude of 550 metres with a north-west orientation.

When making the wine, the Berzal brothers take into account the characteristics of each variety so that both express their full potential.

A total of 280 wineries attended the event, with a presentation of nearly 800 wines and an attendance of more than 3000 people. An important event in which Bodegas Dominio de Berzal wanted to be present. The balance could not be more positive.

Positive balance

Iñigo Berzal, the winery’s oenologist, says: ‘The perception I have of the reception of the two wines is that it was very good’. And he adds that “we were surprised by the great response to the Graciano. In the end, in this area it tends to be a variety that is a little more difficult because it is more acidic and because it has that single-varietal component of cut grass, fennel and balsamic notes”. And Iñigo acknowledges that ‘in this market they are looking for wines similar to this: much fresher and with more acidity’.

And with Las Laderas de José Luis 2021, Iñigo Berzal says that ‘although it is a wine that has not yet been released on the market, it will be released in autumn, it was also very well received and was recognised as the great wine that it is’.

On the commercial side, Iñigo Berzal says that “this show has opened a door to explore and get to know the tastes and trends of a different market. In this way, we can find out which types of wine are best suited to consumers in this market and adjust our offer”.

To round off all these memorable experiences we can recommend two wines that always fit in with a group of friends or a family about to celebrate something important.

7 Varietals 2021

This wine is a limited production. The 1,400 bottles per year of 7 Varietales 2021 contain a blend of a careful selection of seven varieties, all from our winery’s experimental plot.

This beautiful project combines 40% maturana with 10% graciano, garnacha, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, syrah and prieto picudo.

Its ageing in extra fine grain barrels produces a complex and different wine.

Among its most recent awards, it has won first place in the “Great Personal Wines” category at the Rioja Alavesa harvest festival in 2023 and for 93 points in Tim Atkin’s La Rioja 2024 Special Report.

Private Selection

Dominio de Berzal Selección Privada is a special, exclusive wine.

Recently awarded 92 points in the latest Tim Atkin report on Rioja, it is a wine made from a selection of grapes from Tempranillo vineyards over 70 years old. Produced in tank with the ‘Pisage’ system and aged in extra fine grain barrels.

Enjoy a special wine for a special occasion.