Bodegas Calar

The vineyards at Calar are in the base of an old volcano. The walls have collapsed to form the topsoil. Calling this “soil” is a bit of an exaggeration, the vines are found among large angular rocks that seem to allow nothing else to grow from it. Just walking between rows risks a turned ankle! The area is also quite dry, with less than 400mm of rain per year. As a result, they have no need for pesticides or herbicides. Although they are not certified organic, they are practically so, using local sheep manure for fertilizer, natural, wild yeasts for fermentation and just small amounts of sulphur to ensure microbial stability and cleanliness.

This is very much an artisanal winery. Everything is hand-picked and hand-sorted on two selection tables. Grapes are crushed by foot (using rubber boots, not bare feet!).