Bodegas Gratias

Bodegas Gratias is a small, family-run winery located in Casas-Ibáñez, in the La Manchuela region of southeastern Spain. Nestled between the Cabriel and Júcar rivers, this rural landscape provides the ideal setting for the winery’s mission: to preserve local grape varieties, protect old vineyards, and craft honest wines that reflect the character of their land.

Origins & Philosophy

The story of Bodegas Gratias began in 2007, when a group of friends — including founders Ana and Iván — gathered for a casual celebration and decided to ferment a small batch of grapes simply for enjoyment. The resulting wine surprised them with its quality, and this spontaneous experiment grew into a shared vision: to recover the traditional wines of La Manchuela and to honor the nearly forgotten grape varieties of the region.

From that moment, Bodegas Gratias evolved into a heartfelt project committed to minimal-intervention winemaking, respect for nature, and the revival of cultural heritage. The winery’s philosophy is grounded in sustainability, biodiversity, and the belief that wine is a cultural asset worth protecting.

Vineyards & Native Varieties

Gratias works primarily with old, dry-farmed bush vines, many of which are decades old and deeply rooted in the region’s calcareous clay-limestone soils. These vineyards, often passed down through generations, are cultivated with organic and biodynamic principles.

The winery focuses on indigenous grape varieties, especially those at risk of disappearing. Key grapes include:

  • Bobal – the emblematic red variety of the region, known for its intensity and freshness

  • Tardana – a late-ripening white grape traditionally used for local wines

  • Pintaíllo and other nearly extinct regional varieties

By nurturing these grapes and rescuing old plots, Bodegas Gratias helps preserve the viticultural identity of La Manchuela.

Winemaking Approach

The winemaking at Gratias is deliberately natural and artisanal. All grapes are harvested by hand, fermented with native yeasts, and treated with minimal intervention. Sulfite use is kept extremely low or entirely avoided, and wines are often bottled without fining or filtration to maintain their purity.

Depending on the variety and style, wines may ferment or age in:

  • Stainless steel tanks

  • Traditional clay amphorae (tinajas)

  • Glass demijohns

  • Old barrels

Each vessel is selected to highlight the expression of the grape and the personality of the vineyard. The result is a collection of expressive wines that are vibrant, authentic, and directly connected to their origin.

Mission & Heritage Preservation

More than a winery, Bodegas Gratias is a cultural and ecological project. The team’s ongoing work includes:

  • Saving old vineyards from abandonment or uprooting

  • Reviving grape varieties on the brink of extinction

  • Supporting local growers and communities

  • Promoting biodiversity and sustainable farming

Through these actions, Gratias helps ensure that the traditions of La Manchuela continue to thrive and that its wine culture remains alive for future generations.

Visits & Wine Experiences

Bodegas Gratias offers immersive enotourism experiences for visitors interested in natural wine and regional heritage. Guests can explore the vineyards, learn about traditional amphora winemaking, and taste wines directly from the cellar. These visits provide a genuine look into the philosophy, craftsmanship, and human stories behind every bottle.