Cava Garambullo —(San Miguel de Allende, Mexico)

Founders & Philosophy

Cava Garambullo is a natural wine producer located in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. The winery was founded in 2017 by Natalia López Mota, a Mexican oenologist, and Branko Pjanic, a Serbian winemaker. Their partnership blends scientific expertise with a shared passion for natural winemaking. The name "Garambullo" refers to a local cactus, symbolizing resilience and the unique terroir of the region.

The winery's philosophy centers on producing wines that reflect the natural environment, using traditional techniques and minimal intervention. They aim to create wines that are expressive, authentic, and connected to the land.

Vineyards & Farming Practices

Cava Garambullo sources grapes from six different terroirs, five located in the Guanajuato area and one in Querétaroat Rancho Santa Marina. The vineyards are cultivated using organic and biodynamic practices, with a focus on sustainability and ecological balance. The winery works with low-intervention agricultural practices, avoiding the use of herbicides and systemic pesticides.

Grapes are selected, fermented, and aged at the winery's facility in San Miguel de Allende, which is housed within Hacienda la Romita, a historic site that also serves as a venue for events and accommodations.

Winemaking Techniques

Cava Garambullo employs natural fermentation using indigenous yeasts, with no additives or corrections during the winemaking process. The wines are unfined and unfiltered, and only minimal doses of sulfites are added at bottling—some editions contain zero sulfites. This approach emphasizes the purity and authenticity of the wines.

The winemaking process is characterized by a blend of ancestral techniques and contemporary sensibilities, creating a unique synergy that reflects the personality and history of each wine.

Signature Wines

Mono Tinto

  • Grapes: A blend of red varietals.

  • Style: A vibrant, fruit-forward red wine with bright acidity and minimal intervention.

  • Notes: Features bold red fruit flavors with hints of citrus, pear, and subtle earthy undertones.

Azumbre

  • Grapes: A blend of 50% Syrah and 50% Cabernet Franc.

  • Aging: Aged for 9 months in French oak barrels.

  • Style: A structured red wine with balanced tannins and notes of dark fruit and spice.

Ventura Pet-Nat

  • Grapes: Grenache.

  • Method: Produced using the ancestral method (Pet-Nat), with 12 months on lees.

  • Style: A naturally sparkling wine with lively bubbles and a fresh, crisp profile.

Tasting Experience

Visitors to Cava Garambullo can enjoy intimate, guided tastings led by the winemakers themselves. The winery offers a welcoming environment where guests can learn about the winemaking process and sample a selection of wines. Tastings are accompanied by local products, including offerings from regional chefs, bakers, and cheesemakers.

Summary

Cava Garambullo is a boutique winery that stands out for its commitment to natural, terroir-driven wines. Through organic and biodynamic farming, minimal intervention winemaking, and a deep connection to the land, the winery produces wines that are expressive and authentic. Their approach reflects a dedication to quality and a passion for the unique characteristics of the San Miguel de Allende region.

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