Navarra

• Garnacha Rosado: dry, crisp rosé with vibrant red-berry flavors; notes of fresh strawberry and cherry, refreshing acidity, and a classic local pairing.
• Tempranillo: leading red variety; cherry-colored with mineral notes, ripe berry aromas, and often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for added depth.
• Garnacha (Grenache): juicy and fruit-forward, delivering spice and balanced acidity; shines as both a single varietal and in blends.
• Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot: commonly blended with Tempranillo, contributing structure, ripe fruit, and complexity to red wines.
• Graciano & Mazuelo (Carignan): add depth, aromatic lift, and structure to traditional blends.
• Chardonnay: crisp and mineral-driven in cooler zones; some barrel-aged for a creamy, Burgundian style with notable richness.
• Viura (Macabeo) & Garnacha Blanca: produce fresh, medium-bodied whites with floral, stone-fruit, and citrus notes.
• Sauvignon Blanc: offers aromatic whites with bright acidity and a lively profile.
• Moscatel de Grano Menudo (Muscat à Petit Grains): luscious, golden dessert wines; late-harvested or naturally sweet, showing honeyed, floral, and exotic fruit flavors.

Nestled between the Pyrenees and the Ebro River valley, Navarra presents a dynamic interplay of terroir and climate that shapes its wines. The region's five distinct subzones offer a variety of soils—from clay-limestone to alluvial deposits—providing an ideal foundation for both traditional and modern grape varieties. This diversity supports the production of Navarra's signature Garnacha Rosado and a broad range of reds and whites. Navarra's climate is a harmonious blend of Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, delivering warm summers and mild winters. The diurnal temperature variation, with warm days and cool nights, fosters balanced acidity and complex flavors. Ample sunshine ensures full ripeness, while cool breezes from the Pyrenees maintain freshness, enhancing the aromatic profile of its wines.

Navarra is making significant strides in sustainable wine production, with many vineyards embracing organic practices and integrated pest management. This commitment reflects the region's respect for its agricultural heritage and diverse ecosystems, from Alpine to Mediterranean. By adopting methods like water conservation and native yeast development, Navarra's winemakers are reducing their environmental impact while maintaining the quality and character of their wines. Cover crops and natural pest control enhance soil health and biodiversity, ensuring a vibrant future for the region's vineyards. In response to climate change challenges, Navarra's vintners are implementing innovative solutions such as drought-resistant rootstocks and improved canopy management. Modern facilities are designed with sustainability in mind, featuring energy-saving materials and systems like solar panels and water recycling. The region's dedication to eco-friendly winemaking is further highlighted by events like the international organic wine fair in Pamplona. Through these efforts, Navarra is not only preserving its winemaking heritage but also paving the way for a sustainable future in the industry.

Navarra presents a captivating wine tourism experience, harmonizing its rich winemaking heritage with cultural and natural attractions. The Navarra Wine Route stands out, linking numerous wineries, wine bars, and charming accommodations across approximately 70 towns and villages. This route invites exploration from the medieval allure of Olite, the region's wine capital, to the high-altitude vineyards near Estella. Visitors can enjoy vineyard tours and guided tastings, immersed in both historical and contemporary winemaking practices. The region's unique offerings, such as the art-infused Bodega Otazu or the storied Wine Fountain at Bodegas Irache, enrich the experience, marrying wine with art, history, and tradition in memorable ways. Beyond the vineyards, Navarra's diverse landscape offers a backdrop for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking, with trails that meander through vineyard hills and picturesque countryside. The cultural richness extends to bustling cities like Pamplona, known for its culinary delights and the famous San Fermín festival. Meanwhile, the natural wonders of Bardenas Reales and the Irati Forest provide contrasting landscapes for exploration. This multifaceted approach to wine tourism in Navarra offers a 360-degree experience, where visitors can savor distinctive wines, explore historical sites, and engage with the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region, all while enjoying the scenic beauty that surrounds them.

Navarra's winemaking landscape is a rich tapestry of tradition and innovation, with several notable wineries leading the charge in quality and diversity. Here are a few standouts:

• Bodegas Julián Chivite: Esteemed for its long history and excellence, producing standout wines like the *Colección 125* Chardonnay and sophisticated Gran Feudo reds.
• Bodegas Ochoa: A pioneer in organic winemaking, known for vibrant Garnacha rosés and intricate Tempranillo-Cabernet blends, celebrating both native and international varieties.
• Domaines Lupier: Specializes in old-vine Garnacha, crafting aromatic and polished single-vineyard reds that highlight the uniqueness of local varieties.
• Bodega Otazu: Recognized for its stunning architecture and Vino de Pago status, producing premium Bordeaux-style reds and barrel-aged Chardonnays in a gravity-fed facility.
• Pago de Larrainzar: Offers elegant red blends that reflect their distinct terroir, with a setting that enchants visitors with its historical and natural beauty.