Torre de Oña Winery Guide

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Last updated: June 4, 2024

Winery Overview

The utterly delightful Torre de Oña estate is just a couple of miles from the pretty village of Laguardia in Álava. A single estate of just 50 hectares of vines, initially founded in 1987 and bought by La Rioja S.A. in 1995. The prestige and know-how of Rioja Alta shine through here at Torre de Oña, where elegantly beautiful modern riojas are being produced from some of the best plots in the region. The terroir and distinguishing the optimum plots and even sub-plots have played a crucial and defining role, giving birth to some very sophisticated wines. There are three wines in their range; Crianza – Finca San Martín and Reservas Torre de Oña and Martelo, the latter only produced in top vintages.

With its new facilities opened in 2016, Torre de Oña has embraced innovative techniques to enhance the winemaking process. For example, implementing an automated system for handling harvest boxes ensures the gentle treatment of grapes while using crane-operated tanks adds precision and efficiency. In addition, introducing an optical sorter allows for meticulous monitoring of grape quality.

Winemaker Julio Sáenz has been part of the project from the start and oozes enthusiasm besides his extensive knowledge and experience. Julio is quietly very proud of what has been achieved but focuses most of his energy on striving to improve. He is particularly proud of the Torre de Oña Martelo: This single vineyard wine showcases the essence of its unique terroir, predominantly made from Tempranillo grapes with a touch of Graciano. Martelo displays a harmonious blend of fruit flavors and subtle hints of oak, culminating in a long, satisfying finish.

Torre de Oña’s top wines exhibit meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, making the winery a distinguished name in Rioja. These wines capture the essence of the terroir and demonstrate the winery’s commitment to producing exceptional vintages that showcase the best of Rioja’s winemaking tradition.

A private visit and tasting here is a real treat. The setting is gorgeous; you will have an informative tour of the immaculate vineyards and state-of-the-art winery. Then, of course, the finale is the tasting, paired with delicious cured meats and cheeses in the dining room, which has lovely large windows with the dreamiest views. We are confident that you will fall in love with this captivating winery and superb wines as much as we have.