VINAMERICAS | NEWS

Bodegas Tritium, located in the historic village of Tricio  (Tritium in latin, hence the name) in Rioja Alta, is a winery defined by its dedication to preserving old vines and traditional viticulture. The estate manages approximately eight hectares of vines, many of which are between 90 and 113 years old and have never been grafted or replanted en masse. This preservation of centenary vines allows for a unique clonal diversity and deeply rooted plants that deliver exceptional complexity, balance, and concentration. The soils, a mix of calcareous clay and alluvial deposits, further enhance the expression of terroir in each plot.

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In the winery, fermentations are carried out with native yeasts, allowing for spontaneous, slow fermentations that respect the identity of each varietal and parcel. A minimalist intervention philosophy drives all decisions — from gentle pressing to limited sulfite use. Select wines undergo fermentation and aging in 750-liter handmade clay amphorae, which encourage micro-oxygenation and preserve aromatic precision. This amphora program is particularly important for expressing purity in wines made from Viura, Tempranillo Blanco, and Garnacha, where fruit expression and texture are key.

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Barrel aging is approached with precision and diversity. Tritium employs a wide array of high-quality oak barrels sourced from France, America, and Eastern Europe, each selected based on grain tightness, toast level, and wood origin to complement specific grape varieties. French oak contributes fine tannins and spice, American oak offers vanilla and sweetness, and Eastern European barrels bring a tighter grain structure and subtle aromatics. Barrel sizes range from 225 to 500 liters, and aging times vary by cuvée, with some wines spending over 18 months in barrel to gain structure and complexity without overwhelming the varietal character.

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The resulting wines are small-lot, terroir-driven expressions of Rioja, blending historical wisdom with precise craftsmanship. From structured and age-worthy Tempranillo and Mazuelo to elegant whites aged on lees, each bottle reflects Tritium's dedication to organic farming, low yields, and expressive aging. By preserving the vineyard's legacy and embracing both amphora and carefully curated barrel regimens, Tritium offers a compelling vision of Rioja’s future — one rooted deeply in its past.

 

For more information on Bodegas Tritium and their wines, click HERE.