Esteban Martin

Esteban Martin combines the traditions of Cariñena (which has given its name to the Carignan variety popular in the Languedoc in particular; curiously, here it is known as Mazuela) with modern techniques. The vineyard is low-level for the DO at 500 metres (the DO is planted between 400 and 800 metres by the Sierra de la Virgen mountains). The vineyards benefit from a special micro-climate which has an unmistakable impact on the grapes. The climate is continental: dry with long, hot summers and cold winters and extreme temperature fluctuations (between -8°C and 38°C) tempered by the “Cierzo” a cold northerly wind which helps to keep the humidity low.

The vineyard is planted with Garnacha (the same as the Southern Rhône's Grenache) along with Tempranillo and Mazuela for reds along with international varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. The native white varieties of Macabeo and Moscatel are complemented by Chardonnay. As with any quality producer, great attention is given to the fruit selection and the policy of care is carried through the entire winemaking process. The result is structured, intense and fruity wines.

Production consists of a range of decent "house" wines (red, white and rosé), a Crianza and Reserva. Whilst all are great value, we decided to concentrate on the Garnacha (Grenache) based rosado, Crianza and Reserva wines which offer incredible value for money.

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