Description
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Diversity is the focus of this year’s Top 100 Report from Navarra, the third of its kind. Producers are making wonderfully characterful and expressive wines that truly reflect their terroir, the most biodiverse of Spain. From the wild, herbal character of the old vine Garnachas of San Martín de Unx, to the fresh reds of the Yerri Valley or Artazu, and the muscular yet fine wines of Fitero or Cintruénigo, producers are reflecting Navarra’s exceptional vineyards.
There are projects underway to recuperate ancient varieties like Musa, Oneka and Berués, while some growers are working with local biotypes of Garnacha to see which best adapt to specific vineyard sites. And in Eslava, the cooperative has ditched chemicals in favour of indigenous microorganisms to improve the health and natural diversity of their valley.
The work in the vines is supported by impressive innovation and judicious winemaking, often returning to older methods. It is common to see amphoras, concrete tanks, foudres and wine globes alongside barrels and stainless steel. The resulting wines are fresh, varietal and beautifully Navarran in spirit.
The A-Z includes scores for 297 wines from 40 producers, most of whom I visited over the course of a week in February. And where a wine comes from a particular village or municipality, I have highlighted this along with the subzone. My aim is to highlight the nuances that define Navarra, a region that continues to surprise and delight.
Salud!
Beth Willard
