Bodegas Azpillago Urarte El Pago Blanca

Azpillaga Urarte is a family-run winery in Lanciego in the Alavesa region of Rioja, tucked up against the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria.  It was founded in 1989.  Eduardo took over in 2001 and began to phase out all pesticides and chemicals.

He prefers to describe his philosophy as ‘regenerative’ rather than organic.  Indeed, Eduardo and his brother Ignacio’s vision is to fully restore the natural ecosystem to increase yields, reduce costs, increase resilience to climate fluctuations, create employment and unite the community to restore the soil back to that which took nature 300 years to create! Grass between the rows, encouragement of natural pest-control, biodiversity and biodynamic principles all reflect and contribute to their philosophy.  

The classic Riojan varieties keep the boys busy with the majority of their 12 hectares taken up with Tempranillo then Garnacha Blanca, Garnacha Tinta, Graciano and Viura in support. 

Wholebunch fermentation, with a short time on skins. Pressed and then left for elevage in stainless steel and concrete.