Introduction
Celler del Roure, often affectionately called “cellersdelroc,” is a winery rooted in the heart of Valencia, Spain. Known for its dedication to reviving ancient winemaking techniques, this winery has gained a reputation for producing exquisite wines that honor tradition while embracing modern innovation.
From the rediscovery of its 17th-century subterranean cellar to its focus on indigenous grape varieties, Celler del Roure is a testament to the richness of Spanish viticulture. In this guide, we will explore the history, winemaking practices, and unique wines that make this winery a standout in the industry.
History of Cellersdelroc
Founded in 1995 by Pablo Calatayud, Celler del Roure started as a small winery with a big vision. The primary objective was to create wines that reflected the authenticity of the Valencian terroir. Over time, the discovery of a 17th-century underground cellar led to a profound shift in its approach, inspiring a revival of ancient winemaking methods.
The winery began restoring and utilizing these old subterranean spaces, where clay amphorae (locally called tinajas) were found. These vessels, historically used for winemaking, became the cornerstone of Celler del Roure’s philosophy. This unique blend of historical methods with contemporary techniques has allowed the winery to produce wines that stand out for their depth, complexity, and purity.
Geographical and Viticultural Context
Located in the town of Moixent, Valencia, Celler del Roure benefits from a distinctive Mediterranean climate with a continental influence. The vineyards sit at an altitude of 550 meters, providing an ideal environment for grape cultivation. The soil composition is predominantly limestone and clay, ensuring excellent drainage and mineral retention.
The proximity to the Sierra La Solana mountain range further enhances the microclimate, resulting in optimal conditions for growing indigenous grape varieties. With cool nights and warm days, the vineyards produce grapes that maintain balanced acidity and intense flavors.
Revival of Indigenous Grape Varieties
One of the most remarkable contributions of cellersdelroc to the wine industry is its dedication to reviving forgotten indigenous grape varieties. Among the notable grapes cultivated at the winery are:
- Mandó: A red grape known for its light body and fresh acidity, similar to Pinot Noir.
- Verdil: A rare white grape variety that adds floral and citrusy notes to the wines.
- Arcos: A native red grape that brings depth and complexity to blends.
These grapes were once at risk of extinction, but through careful vineyard management and winemaking innovation, Celler del Roure has brought them back to life, allowing them to shine in modern wines.
Traditional Winemaking Techniques
At Celler del Roure, tradition meets innovation. One of the winery’s most distinguishing features is its use of clay amphorae for fermentation and aging. Unlike oak barrels, these porous vessels allow for gentle oxidation, enhancing the wine’s freshness and preserving its natural flavors.
| Traditional Method | Modern Alternative | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Clay amphorae | Oak barrels | Amphorae preserve purity and fruit-forward characteristics |
| Hand-harvested grapes | Machine harvesting | Manual harvesting ensures better grape selection |
| Spontaneous fermentation | Controlled fermentation | Natural yeasts add complexity to the wine |
The result is a collection of wines that offer a unique expression of terroir, with minimal intervention and a pure, unadulterated taste.
Wine Portfolio
Celler del Roure produces an impressive range of wines categorized into two main collections:
Vins Antics (Ancient Wines)
- Cullerot – A white blend of Macabeo, Verdil, Malvasía, and Pedro Ximénez, aged in amphorae.
- Vermell – A red blend of Mandó and Garnacha Tintorera, offering fresh and fruity flavors.
- Safrà – A unique red featuring Mandó and Arcos, known for its elegant structure.
- Parotet – A bold, amphora-aged red made from Mandó and Monastrell.
Vins Clàssics (Classic Wines)
- Les Alcusses – A balanced red blend featuring Monastrell and other local grapes.
- Maduresa – A high-end red, showcasing the best vineyard selections with complex aging potential.
Viticultural Practices
Celler del Roure follows sustainable farming techniques, emphasizing organic viticulture. The vineyard is managed with minimal intervention, ensuring that each grape expresses the natural characteristics of the land. Hand-harvesting, low yields, and careful sorting contribute to the quality of the wines.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Beyond winemaking, Celler del Roure is deeply intertwined with Valencian history. The winery is located near the Bastide de les Alcusses, an ancient Iberian settlement dating back to the 4th century BC. This rich historical backdrop adds a cultural dimension to the winery, making it a fascinating destination for history and wine enthusiasts alike.
Market Presence and Reception
Celler del Roure has gained significant recognition both locally and internationally. Its wines are distributed in major wine markets, including Spain, the United States, and various European countries. Critics and wine lovers appreciate the winery’s commitment to authenticity and sustainability, with many of its wines receiving high ratings from prestigious wine publications.
Future Directions
The winery continues to explore new possibilities, including:
- Expanding its vineyard area while maintaining sustainability.
- Experimenting with additional indigenous grape varieties.
- Enhancing its wine tourism experience with educational and immersive events.
Visiting Cellersdelroc
For those eager to experience cellersdelroc firsthand, the winery offers guided tours that include:
- A visit to the ancient underground cellar.
- Tasting sessions featuring their best wines.
- Insights into their sustainable winemaking practices.
Visitors can book a tour through the winery’s official website or contact them directly for customized experiences.
Conclusion
Celler del Roure is more than just a winery; it is a bridge between the past and the future of winemaking. By reviving lost traditions and championing indigenous grapes, cellersdelroc continues to set a benchmark for authenticity and excellence in Spanish wine production. Whether you are a casual wine lover or a connoisseur, this winery offers an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and taste.
Related Articles
Everything You Need to Know About Traceloans.com Mortgage Loans: A Complete Guide
MyGreenBucks Kenneth Jones: A Revolutionary Approach to Sustainable Digital Banking
Harmonicode Gaming: A Deep Dive into the Future of Game Development
