Supplier of the Month : Sierra de Toloño

This month, we spotlight Sierra de Toloño: one of the most intriguing and distinctive estates in Rioja Alavesa. High-altitude vineyards, old vines and an uncompromising focus on terroir make this project an absolute benchmark for lovers of refined, fresh and mineral-driven Rioja.

Atlantic freshness in Rioja

Sierra de Toloño is located at the northern edge of Rioja Alavesa, at the foot of the mountain range of the same name, which acts as a natural barrier between the Atlantic north and the Mediterranean south. The vineyards lie at 500 to 700 metres above sea level, ensuring cool nights, significant diurnal temperature variation and natural tension in the wines.

The soils are distinctly calcareous, composed of grey limestone (lastra), clay, as well as local sandstone and marl. Combined with old vines and low yields, this results in wines of great finesse, excellent ageing potential and a remarkably pure expression of terroir. Here, there are no heavy, oak-driven Riojas, but rather elegance, freshness and precision.

Old plots, pure origin

The estate works with a mosaic of small, often very old vineyard parcels around villages such as Rivas de Tereso and Villabuena de Álava. Plantings consist mainly of Tempranillo and Garnacha for reds, and Viura, complemented by various indigenous white varieties, for whites.

All vineyards are farmed organically and biodynamically, with deep respect for nature and biodiversity. Everything revolves around balance and authenticity, from manual harvesting to minimalist vinification.

Sandra Bravo, the beating heart of Sierra de Toloño

At the helm of this unique project is Sandra Bravo, one of the most influential winemakers of her generation in Rioja. Originally from Logroño and deeply rooted in Rioja Alavesa, she combines profound local knowledge with international experience gained in Bordeaux, Chianti, and above all Priorat, where she worked for seven years alongside Ricard Rofes (Scala Dei).

In 2019, Sandra was named Best Young Winemaker of the Year by Tim Atkin MW in his Rioja Special Report. Since then, Sierra de Toloño has been included in Atkin’s highly selective First Growth Group, alongside some of Rioja’s most iconic estates.

Her philosophy is clear: great wines are born in the vineyard. Investments are directed primarily towards preserving and restoring old plots, rather than unnecessary infrastructure. The result is a recognisable, deeply personal style defined by elegance, transparency and terroir expression.

Modern Rioja with soul and tension

The wines of Sierra de Toloño stand out for their floral expression, fresh red and black fruit, and a pronounced mineral core. Red wines display aromas of violets, redcurrant, pomegranate and Mediterranean herbs, supported by vibrant acidity and fine, chalky tannins.

The white wines are tight, layered and energetic, offering saline minerality, white flowers and subtle spice.

Amphorae play an important role in the vinification, alongside neutral oak barrels. Wood is always used in a supporting role, never dominating. Everything serves the pursuit of purity, freshness and terroir expression.

At the table, food pairing suggestions

Thanks to their natural tension and structure, Sierra de Toloño wines are highly gastronomic.

• Red wines: ideal with poultry, grilled meats, game, mushrooms and flavourful Mediterranean dishes.

• White wines: perfect with fish, shellfish and seafood, vegetables and refined dishes where mineral tension is key.

Why Sierra de Toloño?

Because this estate embodies a contemporary, elegant interpretation of Rioja: high-altitude vineyards, limestone soils and a pure, honest style that resonates perfectly with lovers of characterful wines offering finesse and ageing potential.