Naranjuez Prisa Mata 2022

Bodega Naranjuez is a trailblazing winery based in the Alpujarra region of Granada, Andalusia, Spain. Established in the 1980s by Manuel Valenzuela, the estate has become renowned for its commitment to sustainable farming, biodynamic principles, and natural winemaking practices. Situated in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Naranjuez benefits from a unique microclimate: high altitudes (1,200 meters above sea level), low rainfall, and a wide daily range. These conditions allow for the grapes' slow, balanced ripening, resulting in freshness and character wines.

The vineyards are planted with an eclectic mix of native and international varieties, including Tempranillo, Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, and lesser-known regional grapes. Naranjuez experiments with the co-fermentation of white and red varieties, crafting distinctive and unconventional wines. Fermentations occur naturally with indigenous yeasts, and the wines are bottled without fining, filtration, or added sulfites, staying true to their philosophy of minimal intervention.
Bodega Naranjuez's wines are celebrated for their vibrancy, purity, and terroir-driven complexity, making them a benchmark for Andalusian natural wines. From their fresh, aromatic whites to bold yet elegant reds, Naranjuez offers a compelling exploration of high-altitude winemaking in southern Spain.

Andalusia, located in southern Spain, is one of the country's most historic and diverse wine regions. Known for its sun-drenched landscapes, dramatic mountain ranges, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Andalusia offers a range of microclimates and terroirs contributing to its remarkable wine variety.

Key Areas and Styles:

1. Jerez (Sherry): The most famous subregion, producing fortified wines such as Fino, Amontillado, and Oloroso. These wines are crafted from Palomino Fino, Pedro Ximénez (PX), and Moscatel grapes, aged using the unique solera system in albariza soils.
2. Montilla-Moriles: Specializes in styles similar to Jerez, focusing on Pedro Ximénez wines.
3. Malaga: Known for its sweet, fortified wines made from Moscatel and Pedro Ximénez, often grown on steep, sandy soils.
4. Sierra de Málaga and Granada (Alpujarra): Emerging areas producing innovative natural wines from a mix of native and international varieties, often grown in high-altitude vineyards.
5. Condado de Huelva: Produces fortified and unfortified wines with traditional and modern approaches.

Terroir and Climate:

Andalusia's terroir ranges from the chalky albariza soils of Jerez, ideal for Sherry production, to the rugged granite and slate of the Sierra Nevada foothills. The region's Mediterranean climate, tempered by oceanic breezes, provides long, sunny growing seasons, ensuring ripe and concentrated grapes. In higher altitudes, cooler temperatures maintain freshness and acidity in the wines.

Wines Beyond Fortified:

While Sherry dominates Andalusia's identity, the region is gaining recognition for dry whites, bold reds, and natural wines from Tempranillo, Garnacha, Moscatel, and other lesser-known local varieties. Many small, innovative producers are reviving ancient methods and forgotten grapes, pushing Andalusia into the spotlight of modern winemaking.

Andalusia remains a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation, offering wine lovers everything from iconic fortified classics to adventurous new styles.