The sounds of Tentenublo

The name Tentenublo comes from the ringing of bells, a practice aimed at fighting off hailstorms in the Rioja villages.  Like the resounding sounds of bells the wines of Tentenublo echo in the hearts and palates of its drinkers. 

It was 2011 when Roberto Oliván fourth generation began to develop the Tentenublo Wines project after more than 20 years working in the Family Vineyards. 

Roberto Oliván makes Rioja DOP wines with their own charming character from some of the most obscure and challenging to work areas of La Rioja Alavesa.

He owns 10 hectares of vineyards spread over about 30 plots located in the Rioja Alavesa village of Viñaspre. Which lies on the foothills at the eastern end of the Sierra Cantabria mountains. Here the 

limestone and sandstone soils are moderated by the altitude upwards of 700m above sea level and the greater influence of the Atlantic climate. 

The sites are planted to Tempranillo, Garnacha, Viura or Malvasia. These wines speak of energy and electricity, a contrast to the richly dense wines often influenced by a hefty use of oak within the region. 

Interestingly the red wines always contain white grapes, which Roberto says adds a "chaotic" sensation to the center of the palate. All wines are organically farmed with the utmost care and attention to detail, with an added personal touch from Roberto Oliván.