Roberto Oliván is the driving force behind Tentenublo, and he is one of the most exciting names in the new generation of young winemakers in Rioja, who are much more interested in making extraordinary wines from unique sites rather than volume blends. He owns approximately 10 hectares of family vineyards and has grouped around thirty small vineyard plots around Viñaspre, his hometown, near Lanciego in Rioja Alavesa, a wine-growing area on the foothills at the eastern end of the Sierra Cantabria mountains. The high altitude (up to 700 meters) of these plots helps define the brilliantly defined style of his wines. The name “Tentenublo” comes from the ringing of bells – in Rioja, bells ring to ward off hailstorms – which are also found on each of the labels of the different cuvées.
Red wines always contain white grapes, which, according to Roberto, adds a “chaotic” sensation to the center of the palate. According to us, it adds originality, complexity, and lightness to these powerful and tannic wines. All vineyard plots are grown organically (certified since the 2020 vintage) and vinified separately. The age of the vines ranges from 20 to 100 years. These are unique and personal wines that channel the energy and history of the land, concentrated with fruit and endowed with a vibrant mineral power.
