Maite Fernández Mendoza and Abel Mendoza, her spouse, of Bodega Abel Mendoza just celebrated their 30th year together as a passionate winemaker and viticulturist team, and are considered among the region’s modernists. Maite first studied in England, where she hoped to pursue public relations, but then needed to return to her village to assist her family. While there, she met Abel and was introduced to traditional and modern approaches to viticulture. Having his support from the very beginning, she came to share his vision and adamant focus on crafting age-worthy wines that would reflect the characteristics of different vineyards.

Maite studied enology in Logrono and “practiced what she studied in her own house.” (For Maite, doing was always the best way to learn.) Maite and Abel do most of the work on their own on their estate in San Vicente de la Sonsierra, where they produce Burgundian style wines. It is a very small production winery of terroir-driven high-quality wines. In order to visit, you need to plan ahead, as an appointment is required. Their winery is listed among the top wineries in Spain.

Both Maite and Abel welcomed us warmly and we soon felt like family. During our quite lively conversation, we learned a great deal about their vineyard practices and their focus on quality. The winery produces high quality and terrior-infused reserve wines. These include Tempranillo and several unusual single varietals including Viura and Malvasía. We departed the day of our visit with several bottles of Abel Mendoza Selección Personal.