El Coto was founded in 1970 in Rioja Alavesa and has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the best-known producers in Rioja. Now the largest vineyard owner in the region, El Coto has more than 800 hectares of vineyards across the three Rioja DOCa sub-zones of Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Oriental, allowing them to represent the vast diversity found within the area. In 2023, El Coto was certified under the Sustainable Wineries for Climate Protection organisation (SWfCP), in recognition of their improved sustainability practices, which include the installation of solar panels, reducing bottle weights and packaging improvements.
Head winemaker César Fernández oversees production at El Coto, starting with hand-picking into 350-kilogram crates to ensure the grapes arrive at the winery in pristine condition. Modern and intelligently designed, the emphasis in the winery is on temperature control and gentle handling of the grapes.
The ‘Coto de Imaz’ Rioja Reserva and Gran Reserva are made from a selection of the best Tempranillo grapes from estate vineyards in Rioja Alta. While the Reserva is 100% Tempranillo, a small amount of Graciano is used in the Gran Reserva to add complexity. Maceration on the skins lasts for three to four weeks and the resulting wine is aged in oak,18 months for the Reserva and 24 months for the Gran Reserva. Both wines combine the traditional oak characteristics of Rioja with a freshness that makes them classy and modern.
