The Viticultural Legacy of Ribeira Sacra
In the heart of Ribeira Sacra, where the Sil River winds through canyons covered with heroic vineyards, stands Bodega Regina Viarum. Founded in 1999, but rooted in a tradition that dates back to the 16th century—when monks cultivated these slopes—this winery is a bridge between Galician heritage and the demands of the global market. For buyers and distributors, it represents a seal of authenticity and technical quality, supported by the Denomination of Origin (DOP) Ribera Sacra.
History: Roots in Stone
The winery was born from a passion to recover abandoned vineyards on terraced stone slopes, a landscape sculpted by generations. Its name, Regina Viarum ("Queen of the Roads"), honors the Roman road that passed through the area, symbolizing its vocation to unite the past and present. With a philosophy that combines enological rigor and respect for biodiversity, they have revitalized plots of Mencía, Merenzao (Trousseau), and Godello, varieties that define the mineral and elegant character of their wines.
Products:
Regina Viarum Etiqueta Negra:
Wines that embody the essence of the DOP.
Red Wines: Made with Mencía and Merenzao, they stand out for their vibrant freshness, notes of tart red fruit, aromatic herbs, and silky tannins. Ideal for markets seeking wines with a unique identity.
White Wines: Based on Godello, they offer mineral complexity and a citrus-floral profile, perfect for pairing with seafood and rice dishes.
Finca Viñoa:
Their premium project, focused on specific plots with slate and granite soils. Wines of lower production but greater depth, such as Finca Viñoa Tinto, which adds a touch of Garnacha to round out the structure.
Techniques and Sustainability
Bodega Regina Viarum operates under a model of heroic viticulture (slopes of up to 85%), where harvesting is manual and vineyard work is almost artisanal. They use fermentations with native yeasts and aging in second- and third-use French oak barrels, prioritizing the expression of the terroir over the wood. Additionally, they have implemented sustainable practices, such as vegetal covers to prevent erosion, which are crucial in a fragile and steep landscape.
Market and Distribution Network
With an annual production of around 150,000 bottles, Regina Viarum has established a presence in Spain, Germany, the United States, and Asia. Their strategy focuses on:
Specialized Channels:
Wine shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, and gourmet stores.
International Fairs:
Participation in ProWein (Düsseldorf) and Fenavin (Spain) to attract new importers.
Direct to Consumer:
Winery visits and wine lover clubs, strengthening their brand narrative.
Key Points for Distributors
Competitive Advantage:
High-altitude wines (400-600 meters) with natural acidity, suitable for aging.
Flexibility in Formats:
They offer standard bottles, magnums, and limited editions for premium segments.
Strong Storytelling:
The connection with monastic history and the dramatic landscape are powerful marketing assets.
An Ally for Discerning Palates
Bodega Regina Viarum is not just a supplier but a guardian of Ribeira Sacra. Its wines, technically flawless and emotionally evocative, satisfy a final customer who values authenticity and uniqueness. For distribution professionals, it represents an opportunity to add a product with Galician DNA, verifiable history, and growth potential in premium markets to their portfolio.
