A Journey Through Time and Terroir

The sun was just beginning to cast its golden glow over the ancient city of Zaragoza as my wife and I embarked on a journey that promised to be as rich in history as it was in flavor. Our guide, Jorge, met us at the historic Goya Hotel, a fitting starting point given its namesake’s deep ties to the region. Jorge’s enthusiasm was infectious, and his knowledge of the area was as robust as the wines we were about to taste. As we left the city behind, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of vineyards, each row of vines a testament to centuries of cultivation.

Our first destination was the Bodegas Heredad Ansón, nestled in a quaint village that seemed untouched by time. The winery, run by the Ansón family for generations, was a living museum of winemaking tradition. Maria, one of the current custodians of this legacy, welcomed us with open arms. Her passion for her craft was evident as she guided us through the winemaking process, from the sun-drenched fields to the cool, shadowy cellars. Here, we were introduced to the Garnacha and Macabeo grape varieties, each with its own story to tell. As we sampled the wines, accompanied by local delicacies like manchego cheese and Teruel Jamon, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the land and its history.

The Hidden Depths of Libre y Salvaje

Our journey continued to the enigmatic Libre y Salvaje, a winery that promised a blend of tradition and innovation. As we approached, the imposing iron gates hinted at the secrets within. Angel, our host, greeted us with a youthful exuberance that belied the ancient roots of the winery. The courtyard, with its white limestone walls, was a stark contrast to the subterranean world we were about to explore.

Descending into the depths of the winery was like stepping back in time. The caves, with their flickering amber light, held the whispers of winemakers past. Massive clay casks stood like sentinels, each one a relic of a bygone era. Angel’s narrative wove together the winery’s ethos of “Free and Wild,” a philosophy that embraced both the old and the new. As we emerged from the caves, the tasting that followed was nothing short of revelatory. The wines, a harmonious blend of Cariñena and Garnacha, were a testament to the innovative spirit of the winery. Each sip was a journey through the ages, a dance between tradition and modernity.

A Day to Remember

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the experiences that had unfolded. Jorge had orchestrated a symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors that resonated deeply with my love for history and culture. The wineries of Cariñena were not just places of production; they were custodians of a rich heritage, each bottle a narrative of the land and its people.

For those who, like me, find joy in the stories that history tells through its landscapes and flavors, this winery tour is an experience not to be missed. Zaragoza’s wine country offers more than just a taste of its renowned wines; it offers a glimpse into the soul of a region steeped in tradition and innovation. As we returned to the city, the sun setting behind us, I knew that the memories of this day would linger long after the last drop of wine had been savored.