Iker García runs this artisanal winery that is the only one in the whole of Labraza. The medieval village is located East of the Rioja Alavesa sub-region (Basque country). Located at an altitude of 650 metres above sea level is also blessed by an Atlantic microclimate benefitting from the Föhn effect and a wide range of biodiversity. Their principles are based on respect for the land as well as the enhancement of Labraza’s terroir and its natural surroundings.
 
Therefore his vineyards are grown following natural winemaking principles. The aim is to show the best expression of their terroir through their local varieties. The whole process is made in an artisanal way, applying a hands-off principle. All their wines are made spontaneously, with minimum intervention, naturally and traditionally, without adding sulfites at any stage. Unfiltered and naturally clarified to guarantee all the authenticity.
 
Valtide is a small cuvee that Iker makes using the Mazuelo grape (aka Cariñena) sourced from a 35-year-old single vineyard. Mazuelo is commonly used in Rioja to balance Tempranillo’s low acidity. It is very rare to see a 100% Mazuelo wine in the area, even though it’s capable of giving unique wines in return. The soil here is very poor (clay-calcareous) producing very low yields. 7 days of carbonic maceration (to tame Mazuelo's harsh character), pressed and transferred into a 500L barrel where it finished the fermentation and was also aged for about 6 months.
 
A different side to the Rioja that you might know!