Álvaro González Marcos (Vinos Al Margen)
Álvaro González Marcos is a highly dynamic and innovative winemaker primarily associated with his project Vinos Al Margen (meaning "Wines on the Margin" or "Off-Grid Wines"). His work is centered in the Tierra de León region of Castilla y León, Spain, though his philosophy often extends to working with unique parcels and forgotten varieties across Spain. He is a leading figure in the Spanish natural wine movement.
🌿 Philosophy and Viticulture
Álvaro is deeply committed to biodynamic and organic farming, focusing on reviving neglected, often high-altitude, and historically important vineyards. His philosophy is one of minimalism and transparency, allowing the unique local terroir of León—characterized by cool climates and diverse soils—to express itself fully. He seeks out obscure old vines and champions native Spanish varieties that had fallen out of fashion.
🍇 Winemaking and Style
In the cellar, Álvaro employs strict low-intervention techniques: native yeasts, zero or extremely low additions of sulfur (often bottled without sulfur), and gentle handling.
His wines, known for their energy, freshness, and profound mineral structure, often focus on:
Prieto Picudo and Mencía: The core red grapes of the León region.
Albarín and Verdejo: Indigenous white varieties.
Experimental blends and skin contact: Pushing the boundaries of traditional regional wine styles.
Álvaro González Marcos is revered for his dedication to finding the margins—both geographically and philosophically—to create pure, living Spanish wines.
📍 Geographic Focus
As a project focused on "wines on the margin" and sourcing old, remote parcels, Álvaro González Marcos's core activity is centered in:
Region: Castilla y León, Spain
Primary Appellation: Tierra de León DO
Specific Address Note:
Like many small, itinerant natural winemakers, the production cellar and the vineyard parcels are often separate. While his production is rooted in the Tierra de León DO, he frequently collaborates across different Spanish regions. For a precise address or cellar location, contacting his official distributors or checking specialized wine directories is necessary.