Ribera deL Quiles

Ribera de Queiles is an IGT (Vino de Tierra) designation located in the province of Zaragoza (region of Aragon) and in the southern part of Navarre. The area acquired its Vino de la Tierra status in 2003.

Huddled in the shelter of the Moncayo Massif, the region enjoys a continental (hot summers, cold dry winters) climate with large diurnal temperature swings, allowing ripening while preserving acidity and balance. A significant climatic feature is the “Cierzo” wind that blows through the region. The Cierzo is a frequent, strong cold and dry wind which, thanks to its high drying capacity, enhances evaporation and prevents the formation of fog and humid conditions in general. This prevents fungus formation and keeps the vines healthy.

The soils are largely Tertiary marine lime and sandy deposits with good drainage. Only Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Graciano, Tempranillo, Garnacha tinta and Syrah are permitted in the zone.

The Wines

Guelbenzu Azul: AZUL is a blend of 65% Tempranillo with Caberneet, Graciano and Syrah. Fermented In stainless then aged 9 months in Frenchand American Oak. Nose: Intense of red and black fruits, spicy with toasted, pastry and light balsamic notes atthe end. Palate: Powerful, fresh and structured. Ripe blackfruit with spicy and balsamic notes. Well-integrated wood.Long and lingering finish.

Guelbenzu EVO: A Bordeaux blend with a Spanish flair. This is the estate’s most complex wine and greatest pride. A blend of 70% Cabernet with Merlot and Graciano. Fermented Instainless then aged 12 months in French oak. Black cherry with a garnet rim. Intense aromas of ripe black fruits with roasted coffee beans and chocolate. Palate: warm,round fruit, black spices, toasted, balsamic cocoa and liqorice notes . Good body, layered, structured and elegant.

guelbenzu

Guelbenzu’s history dates back to 1851, when Martín María Guelbenzu was said to have paid taxes through the sale of demijohns of wine. It was his son, Miguel Guelbenzu, who modernized and gave fresh impetus to the winery, winning important awards for the wines in 1880. The medals awarded and accolades given have become part of the company’s image and have figured on the labels of its wines ever since.

Several generations later, Ricardo Guelbenzu took over the Bodega’s reins, beginning a new era of growth and development which began in 1992 with the launch of what were to become the flagship wines of our new range: Guelbenzu Evo and Azul. The range was completed in 1999 with the addition of the winery’s iconic brand, Guelbenzu Lautus.

Finca La Lombana, a 43-hectare wine estate situated at the foot of the Moncayo mountain in poor soils of quaternary gravels over tertiary marine layers, was planted by the Guelbenzu winery over 20 years ago, and is Guelbenzu’s flagship vineyard.