From the greatest adversities often arise the finest creations; such was the case in Aldeanueva de Ebro. This village, established in the 11th century by shepherds from the Sierra de Cameros and Calahorra, in La Rioja Oriental, has consistently grappled with water scarcity. The only recourse was to focus on rain-fed crops such as wheat, olives, and vineyards. And in this endeavor, nothing and no one could overshadow it. Today, several centuries later, Aldeanueva de Ebro is a benchmark wine-producing village where one can discover intriguing wines like En Voz Baja Barrio Pastores.
Crafted by Carlos Mazo and Isabel Ruiz, En Voz Baja Barrio Pastores is one of the quintessential reds from En Voz Baja, a project that aims to perpetuate the tradition of this region. Without forsaking their heritage, this duo has set down roots in this village, cultivating about ten vineyards (no more than five hectares), inherited from their families, where the Garnacha grape is the sovereign variety. In this respect, it's worth noting that there is no more classic vineyard than those of En Voz Baja, where the vines are grown in goblet training on clayey-ferrous and alluvial soils. Specifically, En Voz Baja Barrio Pastores originates from two different plots, with old vines of more than 30 years, planted in 1989. One is located in the area of Mazaterón (very close to Butrago), planted by Isabel's grandfather; the other is on the path to Montote, near the slope of Los Agudos. The hot summers and dry winters characteristic of the Mediterranean climate do the rest, demanding from the plant an effort that results in few but exceptionally high-quality fruits.
En Voz Baja Barrio Pastores is vinified with whole clusters where indigenous yeasts perform their magic. Thus, alcoholic fermentation begins spontaneously and is carried out by these tiny microorganisms, unique to this area of the D.O.Ca.Rioja. Only in this manner can En Voz Baja Barrio Pastores capture the essence of this land, as if it were a photograph that can be savored with the senses. Finally, aging in 3,000-liter oak vats is the concluding phase that En Voz Baja Barrio Pastores must undergo to transform into a truly magnificent wine that rises to the occasion in challenging times.