Alto Horizonte Alto de la Cruz Garnacha Vinedos de la Sierra de Gredos 2019

Region and Vineyards

Located in Navatalgordo, in the Valley of the Alto Alberche, this wine comes from the Paraje El Sotillo vineyard at an impressive altitude of 1,150 meters above sea level. The Sierra de Gredos region is known for its dramatic landscapes, terraced vineyards, and granitic soils.

The vines for this Garnacha were planted between 1932 and 1935, making them some of the oldest in the region. These head-trained vines are cultivated using dry-farmed, biodynamic practices, emphasizing sustainability and a deep connection to the environment. The vineyard is plowed by horse, reflecting traditional methods, and the granitic sandy soils, combined with layers of silt, provide excellent drainage and impart a fresh, mineral character to the wine.

Winemaking

Alto de la Cruz Garnacha 2019 is crafted with a meticulous focus on quality. After a rigorous cluster selection, 30% of the clusters are destemmed but not crushed and placed at the base of 2,500L stainless steel vats. The remaining whole clusters are added on top. The wine undergoes a spontaneous fermentation after a 3–4 day pre-fermentative maceration at low temperatures, ensuring gentle extraction of flavors and tannins.

After fermentation, the wine is pressed in a vertical basket press, preserving its purity and elegance. It then undergoes malolactic fermentation and ages for 14 months in a combination of one new French oak 500L puncheon and one 1,000L earthenware vat, adding complexity without overpowering the fruit. The wine is neither fined nor filtered, maintaining its natural integrity.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Medium ruby with bright clarity.
• Aroma: Expressive bouquet of red cherry, wild strawberry, and floral hints, with subtle earthy and spicy undertones.
• Palate: Silky and fresh, with vibrant red fruit flavors, fine tannins, and a persistent, mineral-driven finish that reflects the granitic soils.

Did You Know?

The Sierra de Gredos region is gaining international acclaim for its high-altitude Garnacha, which balances ripe fruit flavors with exceptional freshness and minerality. The 2019 vintage of Alto de la Cruz Garnacha received 91 points from The Wine Advocate, highlighting its quality and finesse.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Roast lamb with rosemary: The wine’s earthy undertones and vibrant red fruit complement the savory, herbaceous flavors of the lamb.
• Mushroom risotto: Its silky texture and mineral freshness enhance the umami richness of the dish.
• Grilled vegetables with romesco sauce: The wine’s acidity and red fruit notes harmonize beautifully with the smoky, nutty flavors of the sauce.
• Aged Manchego cheese: Its subtle spice and mineral character balance the nutty, sharp profile of the cheese.

History of Alto Horizonte

Founded in 2015, Aurelio García and Micaela Rubio began by leasing just over 5 hectares of vineyards in the limits of the D.O. Cebreros. As of 2022, their holdings expanded to 8 hectares, producing approximately 14,000 bottles annually. Although their long-term goal is to build a winery in the Cebreros appellation near their vineyards, they currently vinify their wines in Micaela Rubio's winery located in La Alberca de Záncara, Cuenca.

The duo’s work focuses on preserving and revitalizing the historic vineyards of the Valley of the Alberche River, which includes plots in the villages of Navatalgordo, Villanueva de Ávila, and Burgohondo. Many of these vineyards were abandoned due to mass emigration from rural areas near Madrid. By focusing on these ancient parcels, Aurelio and Micaela aim to craft wines that capture the spirit of these unique high-altitude sites.

Region and Vineyards

The Sierra de Gredos, one of Spain’s highest and coolest zones for Garnacha cultivation, lies at 1,000 to 1,100 meters above sea level. The region’s steep mountain terrain and decomposed granite soils give rise to wines with elegant, Burgundian characteristics.

The vineyards, some dating back to the early 20th century, feature old vines of Garnacha and Albillo Real, planted on granitic sands resulting from the weathering of granite bedrock. The high altitude and cool climate ensure long ripening periods, leading to wines with bright acidity, fine-grained tannins, and ethereal red fruit flavors.

Wine Range of Alto Horizonte

Alto Horizonte focuses on crafting small-batch wines that reflect the purity of their terroir:

• Garnacha: Their flagship wines, known for their pale color, high acidity, and vibrant red fruit, often described as hauntingly elegant.
• Albillo Real: A rare white varietal offering aromatic complexity, richness, and a saline finish.

Did You Know?

The high-altitude vineyards of Sierra de Gredos have drawn comparisons to Burgundy due to their ethereal style and granitic soils, which impart minerality and finesse. The unique combination of ancient vines, cool climates, and traditional farming methods creates wines with exceptional character and aging potential.