The wines from Condado de Haza at Wine Spectator
The January-February issue of the prestigious American magazine announces in its front page a selection of 150 “Smart Buys”, wines from 50 top producers from all over the world at the best possible prices. Among them are the wines of Condado de Haza.

<< The powerful reds from Ribera del Duero came to prominence in the 1980’s, led by Alejandro Fernández at Pesquera. In the continental climate and high elevations of the region, Tinto Fino, a clone of Rioja’s Tempranillo, proved its ability to produce ripe, structured, age-worthy wines. But Fernández, who formerly invented and manufactured agricultural tools, did not rest on Pesquera’s laurels.

In the late 1980’s, he began acquiring land and vineyards in tiny parcels along the banks of the Duero, ultimately creating a 500 acre estate that debuted as Condado de Haza with the 1994 vintage. The winery now produces 40,000 cases per year of the basic bottling ($20) (plus small quantities of a prestige cuvée called Alenza). A muscular wine, it delivers ripe black cherry and plum flavors accented by earth and mineral notes, framed by smoky oak. Top recent vintages include 2001, 2000, 1996 and 1995. >>
T.M.
Wine Spectator Magazine. Jan. 31 – Feb. 29, 2004