Barrigón Vino y Sidra — (Querétaro, Mexico)

Founders & Philosophy

Barrigón Vino y Sidra is a natural wine and cider producer based in El Marqués, Querétaro, Mexico. The winery was founded in 2020 by Xaime Niembro, who transitioned from producing mezcal in Oaxaca to exploring the diverse range of ingredients that Mexican soil offers. The name "Barrigón" translates to "paunchy" or "someone with a big belly," symbolizing the joy of life and the belief that good wine should be enjoyable and unpretentious.

The winery's philosophy centers on creating wines and ciders that honor their origin, the soil, and the hands that make them. They aim to produce unbound beverages that reflect the essence of their terroir, made with respect for the environment and a focus on quality over quantity.

Vineyards & Farming Practices

Barrigón Vino y Sidra operates 6 hectares of organically farmed estate vineyards in El Marqués, Querétaro, at an elevation of approximately 1,920 meters (6,300 feet). The soil composition includes clay and organic matter, providing a fertile foundation for the vines. The vineyards are cultivated using regenerative agriculture practices, emphasizing sustainability and ecological balance.

In addition to their estate vineyards, Barrigón sources grapes from a friend's organically farmed estate in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, which shares similar soil profiles and elevations.

Winemaking Techniques

Barrigón Vino y Sidra employs minimal intervention winemaking techniques to produce natural wines and ciders:

  • Fermentation: Utilizes ambient yeasts for spontaneous fermentation.

  • Aging: Wines are aged in stainless steel tanks and neutral oak barrels.

  • Additives: No sulfites, fining agents, or filtration are used during production.

  • Philosophy: The entire Barrigón team collaborates in the winemaking process, emphasizing a collective approach rather than relying on a single winemaker.

Signature Wines

Barrigón Blanco (2023)

  • Blend: 70% Xarel-lo, 15% Grenache, 15% Macabeo.

  • Style: A fresh, citrusy, and mineral profile with notes of pear, litchi, soursop, honeydew, yeast, lemon, and white flowers.

  • Aging: Aged in stainless steel for 6 months.

  • Alcohol: Approximately 12.2%.

  • Production: Approximately 3,200 bottles (266 cases).

  • Pairing: Enjoy cold with fresh oysters or a fresh fish carpaccio.

Barrigón Charelo & Macabeo (2022)

  • Blend: 60% Xarel-lo, 40% Macabeo.

  • Style: A noble wine with a bright and singing acidity, featuring aromas of yellow apples, lemon peel, pineapple, and yeast, with a touch of vanilla.

  • Aging: Fermented in stainless steel tanks with ambient yeast for 15 days, aged on lees for an additional 2 weeks, then racked and left to settle for an additional 3 months in a combination of stainless steel tanks and neutral French oak barrels before being bottled unfined and unfiltered.

  • Alcohol: Approximately 11%.

  • Production: Approximately 240 cases.

  • Pairing: Pairs well with fresh oysters or aguachile.

Barrigón Rosé (2022)

  • Style: A vibrant and expressive rosé with a fresh and fruity profile.

  • Aging: Aged in stainless steel to preserve freshness.

  • Pairing: Ideal for warm afternoons, bringing good vibes to any gathering.

Summary

Barrigón Vino y Sidra stands out as a producer of natural wines and ciders that reflect the unique terroir of Querétaro and Guanajuato. Through organic farming, minimal intervention winemaking, and a commitment to sustainability, Barrigón crafts beverages that are both expressive and approachable. Their wines and ciders embody the joy of life, offering a taste of Mexico's rich agricultural heritage.