Altos Norte Vinícola — (Jalisco, Mexico)

Overview & Philosophy

Altos Norte Vinícola is a natural wine producer based in the highlands of Altos de Jalisco, Mexico, near the region of Encarnación de Díaz.
The winery is dedicated to sustainable viticulture and minimal-intervention winemaking, with a focus on expressing the character of its volcanic highland terroir through pure, authentic wines.

Their philosophy centers on creating wines that are vibrant, alive, and deeply connected to the land.

Vineyards & Farming Practices

The vineyards are situated in the volcanic uplands of Jalisco, at elevations that encourage freshness and natural acidity.
The terrain is defined by gentle slopes, semi-arid conditions, and Haplic Calcisol soils, which provide excellent drainage and mineral complexity.

Farming methods include:

  • Hand-harvesting to ensure grape integrity.

  • Ecological and regenerative viticulture, prioritizing soil health and biodiversity.

  • No synthetic chemicals or industrial additives.

  • Drip irrigation to maintain vine balance in the semi-arid climate.

  • Careful yield management through dense planting and selective pruning.

Winemaking Philosophy & Techniques

Altos Norte’s approach in the cellar mirrors its practices in the vineyard: low intervention and respect for the natural characteristics of each vintage.

Key techniques include:

  • Spontaneous fermentation using native yeasts.

  • No chaptalization or acidification—nothing added or taken away during fermentation.

  • Wines are unfined and unfiltered, retaining natural texture and clarity.

  • Sulfites are used minimally, only when necessary to ensure stability.

Each wine is crafted to showcase its grape variety and growing season, with different techniques applied depending on the style.

Signature Wines

Altos Norte Tinto (2023 Blend)

  • Blend: 75% Malbec, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Method: Spontaneous fermentation, no added sulfites, unfined and unfiltered.

  • Style: Fresh and vibrant, with a direct, youthful expression of fruit.

Altos Norte Tinto (2024 Malbec)

  • Grape: 100% Malbec

  • Method: Carbonic maceration to enhance aromatic lift and soften tannins.

  • Sulfites: A small amount added at bottling (30 g/L).

  • Style: Juicy, fruit-forward, and approachable, with a natural structure.

Zafado Pet-Nat Rosado (2023)

  • Blend: 66% Malbec, 34% Tempranillo

  • Process:

    • Produced via the ancestral method (Pet-Nat).

    • Direct press with spontaneous fermentation.

    • 12 days in tanks, followed by 60 days in bottle for secondary fermentation.

    • Aged on lees for 8 months.

    • Bottled unfined and unfiltered.

  • Style: Lively and effervescent with vibrant acidity and expressive aromatics.

Viticultural Terroir

The highland location of Altos Norte provides:

  • Volcanic soils rich in minerals, contributing to complexity and salinity.

  • Cool nights and warm days, preserving acidity and structure.

  • Semi-arid conditions that produce concentrated, characterful grapes.

This unique combination results in wines that are both expressive and balanced.

Summary

Altos Norte Vinícola is at the forefront of Mexico’s natural wine movement, crafting honest wines that reflect the volcanic landscapes of Jalisco’s highlands.
Through regenerative farming, native fermentations, and a commitment to transparency in winemaking, the winery produces distinctive bottles—from lively, sparkling Pet-Nats to silky, carbonic Malbecs.

These wines embody the spirit of their land, offering a taste of the raw, unfiltered beauty of Mexican highland viticulture.