Familia Martínez Bujanda established a base in La Mancha in 1999 with the acquisition of a large property (1,000Ha) in Los Hinojosos, halfway between the provinces of Cuenca y Toledo in Spain’s Central plateau. Its main attraction was the high elevation (above 900m) and the significant variations between day and night temperatures. Snow in the winter months is common here.
The property was named after the old vines that grew there (antigua means old in Spanish) among the holm oaks. The family recovered part of this heritage and planted more vineyards with local and international grapes. Land under vine now totals 421Ha including white varieties like Viura and Moscatel alongside reds such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Syrah. Half of the surface under vine is destined to wines labelled as DO La Mancha; the other half is sold as VT Castilla.
The entire vineyard is undergoing organic conversion. Irrigation systems are used but yields are kept under control -this is essential to achieve quality. There are over 20 people in the farming team. Limestone stony soils are dominant except for Pico Garbanzo, a vineyard with clay soils and an unusual mix of grapes (Garnacha, Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Mazuelo and others) which was planted by the previous owner. Grapes for Clavis (around €34 in Spain), their premium red, are sourced from this vineyard.
The wines have a neat image and offer outstanding value. 80% of the wines are exported. The portfolio includes a wide range of varietal wines (Viura, Tempranillo, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Garnacha) sold for about €6.5 in Spain. Blends include Finca Antigua Crianza (around €7.5, 50% Tempranillo and international grapes) and Finca Antigua Reserva (€12), which blends French varieties: Merlot (60%), Cabernet and Syrah. There’s also a naturally sweet Moscatel that is sold for €9.
Wine tourism is an important asset at Finca Antigua. Visitors will be surprised by the fabulous views and the large water pond surrounded by buildings destined to fermentation, aging, offices and expedition. A traditional La Mancha farmhouse has been restored to house a cosy wine bar and store.
Commanded by siblings Carlos and Pilar Martínez Bujanda, the group has its roots in Rioja where they own Finca Valpiedra and Viña Bujanda. They also have a winery in Rueda, Finca Montepedroso, and produce PGI (Vino de la Tierra) and table wines for the Cosecheros y Criadores company.
Familia Martínez Bujanda Group wines can be bought online in Spain.
