Sauvella
– Pyrenees, Spain
Sauvella is the project by Dutchman Jeroen Nagtegaal. He revives the centuries-old winemaking tradition of Pallars, Spain, restoring a heritage lost in the 1960s. And makes some amazing wines while doing so. Located in the heart of the Pyrenees, the vineyards are rooted in reddish marl and sandstone shaped by ancient volcanic activity, where dinosaur footprints serve as a reminder of the region’s past.
Sauvella’s regenerative viticulture integrates sheep, wild plants, livestock, beneficial insects, and microbial life to maintain soil health and vineyard biodiversity. The Sumoll grape, a standout in their collection, is an indigenous treasure with only a few hectares remaining globally. Alongside well-known varieties like Syrah, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvella also experiments with Italian grapes such as Nebbiolo and Primitivo, which have adapted seamlessly to the mountain climate.
Their selection of wines includes an elegant white, a refreshing rosé, and a range of reds – from youthful expressions to those gracefully aged in French and American oak barrels, consistently earning critical acclaim and ranking among the finest in Spain.
The Sauvella Rubí 2016 is a young, vibrant red wine, rich in fruit and spice, yet fresh and easy to drink. With limited production, Rubí pairs perfectly with red and white meats or grilled fish, making it a versatile choice ideal for Christmas.
Cultivation: 5 ha
Production: +- 10000 bottles a year
Varieties: Sumoll, Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, and Primitivo
Approach: Natural, no machinery, wild yeast fermentations
Certifications: biologic
Sulfites added: minimal
