HONTZA
Rioja, Spain

Altitude | 560-700 metres
Soil | clay-limestone soil
Approach | Natural, unfiltered, wild yeast, no added sulphites, Biodynamic
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Iker: Born into a lineage of shepherds and farmers, I spent my formative years immersed in the rustic charm of Labraza’s countryside. From tender age, I toiled alongside my family, tending to the land, attuned to the whims of nature, and imbibing its timeless wisdom. Armed with a degree in Environmental Sciences, I felt a deep-seated desire to preserve our ancestral legacy. Hence, I resolved to remain rooted in Labraza, driven by the ambition to not only nurture our ancient vines but also pioneer the creation and distribution of Labraza’s inaugural wine. Guided by the ethos of organic agriculture, I embarked on a journey of discovery into the realm of biodynamic farming, employing age-old techniques and holistic practices to cultivate our vineyards and craft our wines.
Alice: A citizen of the world, my journey began in the heart of Belgium. Fueled by an insatiable curiosity and a passion for cultural exchange, I traversed continents, immersing myself in diverse landscapes and indigenous traditions. My academic pursuits, spanning fields from audiovisual communication to permaculture, served as stepping stones towards a deeper understanding of sustainable living. It was in Spain that I found a spiritual home, drawn by its rugged beauty and rich agricultural heritage. Inspired by the principles of organic living, I embarked on a quest to align my life with the rhythms of nature, seeking harmony and purpose in every endeavor.
Together: Our paths converged amidst the rolling hills of Labraza, where we each sought to manifest a shared vision — a vision of harmonious coexistence with the natural world, characterized by reverence for the land and a commitment to holistic living. Thus, the seeds of the HONTZA project were sown, with the aim of not only reviving the time-honored traditions of our forebears but also infusing them with a contemporary ethos, rooted in sustainability and mindfulness. Since its inception in 2015, HONTZA has remained steadfast in its mission: to shepherd Labraza’s viticultural heritage into the modern era, with unwavering dedication to quality, authenticity, and environmental stewardship. From nurturing the soil with biodynamic practices to crafting wines that honor the essence of the grape, every aspect of our endeavor is imbued with a deep-seated reverence for the natural world and a fervent desire to create a better tomorrow.