HISTORY

Vineyards in Rioja have existed since Roman times, but it wasn't until around 950 AD when the region and its vineyards were expanded upon and further developed. The reason? Religion.

At this time, the Camino de Santiago – one of Europe’s most spiritual pilgrimages even today – gained prominence and drove people to travel from France to the tomb and church of St. James in Galicia (Northern Spain). A good part of the Camino traverses the entire length of Rioja, with the city of Logrono serving as major crossroads. And what’s there to do during a spiritual pilgrimage? You guessed it! Drink wine!

Modern wine making began in Rioja around 1850, thanks largely to Bordeaux. At that time, Odium – a type of mildew – ferociously attacked Bordeaux vineyards. This brought French winemakers to find a region where they could grow exceptional wine. And where else can anyone grow such wines? The French brought their growing techniques and oak-barrel aging into Rioja. In fact, the Marquis de Riscal and Marquis de Murrieta built their French style bodegas (wineries) around 1870 – both major players in Rioja today.

Needless to say, wine has played and keeps playing a historic role for Rioja.