Castillo de Cuzcurrita Rioja Señorío de Cuzcurrita 2020

Cuzcurrita Castle was built in the 14th century by Mr. Juan Martínez de Rojas. In the modern era, the first vintage was produced in the year 2000 in the castle’s old winemaking facilities. It was in 2005 that the new winery was inaugurated, in a building adjacent to the castle and the vineyard, within the walled enclosure. The Cuzcurrita wines reflect the historical tradition of the castle and the winery has focuses all its efforts on combining tradition with the most modern techniques, using gravity and minimal intervention.

Famed woman winemaker Ana Martín Onzain is among the the most influential and highly regarded winemakers in Spain. After attending the Universidad de Bilbao, she applied for a scholarship to study enology in Madrid. After completing her degree, “she had to work her way up,” and was thankful for her enology education, strong character, and excellent palate. Ana is also appreciative of the fine mentoring she received.

Ana returned to the Basque country in 1995, where she acquired fame for her Txakoli at Itsasmendi (Basque for “Sea and Mountain”) de Bizkaia, a pioneering project in the Basque Country. Txakoli de Bizkaia has received acclaim for its integration with nature, preservation of the terroir, quality winemaking, and fine white wines.

In 1999, Ana moved to the Rioja area. New proprietors had purchased Castillo de Cuzcurrita in the village of Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón and undertook an extensive renovation of what was a medieval castle. The facilities are simply amazing and include several works of art by well-known artists. Ana was hired as the lead winemaker in charge of all aspects of winemaking, and has crafted award-winning Tempanillo wines. Although Castillo de Cuzcurrita only produces Tempranillo wines, Ana remains well known in the Basque country for her white wines as well.