Our winery, Torre de Oña in Páganos (Álava), has become a new member of the international association The Old Vine, thanks to its ‘Artisan Vineyards’ project, an organization that defends and protects old vineyards.
Old Vine works to defend and protect old vineyards, an agricultural resource of immense historical and oenological value. These vines, many over 50 years old and some over a century, have survived extreme weather conditions, pests, and diseases, demonstrating resilience that not only ensures their longevity but also directly impacts the quality of the wine they produce. The purpose of this organization is clear: to protect these vineyards as an essential part of the world’s cultural and agricultural heritage.
These old vineyards possess unique characteristics that make them especially valuable for crafting fine wines. Being less productive than younger vines, they concentrate all their energy on a smaller number of grapes, resulting in wines with greater complexity, depth, and expression of terroir. Since 2021, The Old Vine Conference has aimed to raise global awareness of these benefits, promoting a market that values old-vine wines not only for their quality but also for their historical significance. This organization focuses on educating consumers and producers about the importance of preserving these vines, encouraging wines made from them to become a recognized category in the market.
One of its most innovative projects is the Old Vine Registry, a global database that documents the location and characteristics of these wise vineyards. This tool is very useful for both winemakers and consumers, allowing the identification and preservation of historical vineyards worldwide. Meanwhile, the Old Vine Hero Awards honor vintners and producers who dedicate their work to the conservation of these vines, highlighting initiatives that value tradition and respect for historical viticulture.
Renowned wine regions, such as Australia’s Barossa Valley and southern France, are home to some of the world’s most iconic old vineyards. In Spain, regions like Rioja, Priorat, and the Sierra de Gredos are home to vines of indigenous varieties that have endured for generations. However, not all regions have developed a protection system for these vineyards, putting their survival at risk in favor of more modern and mass production.
This work also has a strong environmental component. Old vines, with their deep root systems, require less irrigation and are more resilient to climate fluctuations, making them a key resource in the face of climate change challenges. At a time when sustainability is a priority for the wine industry, protecting these vineyards is not only a matter of heritage but also a commitment to the planet’s future and to responsible wine production.
Additionally, old vineyards are an essential part of the cultural and social landscape of the regions where they are located. The relationship between growers and these vines transcends generations, becoming a symbol of local identity and pride. Thus, preserving these vines also contributes to the rural economy and wine tourism, offering visitors the chance to taste unique wines that tell stories of resilience, time, and tradition.
