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Valle de Parras
Valle de Parras

Valle de Parras

25° 26' 24" N

LATITUDE

102° 11' 54" W

LONGITUDE

0

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about this region

In the heart of Mexico lies the Valle de Parras wine region. Celebrated for its extensive history, tracing back to the 1700s.

This region, mostly known for its brandy production, boasts a diverse terroir that perfectly complements its array of grape varieties. Some of the most significant are Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its bold reds, Tempranillo with its Spanish heritage, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc, both known for their elegance.

Denominación de Origen (DO) Parras

The Denominación de Origen Parras encompasses several vineyards and wineries. The official designation as a DO guarantees the region's commitment to producing high-quality wines, adhering to rigorous standards of quality, terroir, and tradition. It ensures that wines originating from Valle de Parras encapsulate the unique essence of this region, honouring the past and promising a bright future.

Despite often being overshadowed by the major regions of Mexico, such as the Valle de Guadalupe, the Valle de Parras is slowly gaining more attention among wine lovers.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the Valle de Parras is often called the oasis of the semi-desert of Coahuila state?

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Vineyard Hectares

50

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growing degree days

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LOCATION
CLIMATE
SOIL

Location

The Valle de Parras wine region is situated within Parras de la Fuente, in the northern part of Mexico. This region is strategically located in a valley that benefits from a unique microclimate, making it an ideal location for viticulture.

The geography of Valle de Parras features a combination of flat lands and gentle slopes, providing excellent conditions for viticulture. The soil in this area is rich and varied, with a mix of clay, loam, and sand, along with the presence of minerals that are beneficial for grape growing. These soil conditions allow for the successful production of high-quality red and white wines.

The region's scenic beauty, characterized by its vineyard-covered landscapes and the backdrop of the Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range, makes it a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts.

Climate

Nestled within the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains in central Mexico, the Valle de Parras wine region boasts a climate as distinctive as its rich viticultural history.

Classified as a warm arid desert according to the Köppen Climate Classification scale, this region's unique character is shaped by a combination of factors:

  • Despite its tropical latitude, its elevation, soaring to nearly 1,525 meters (5,000 ft), brings a surprising coolness to the climate compared to lower-altitude areas.
  • Rainfall in the Parras Valley is minimal, ranging between 80 and 100 mm annually, necessitating the use of irrigation for grape cultivation.
  • The convergence of an arid climate and high altitudes, spanning from 1,200m to over 2,100m above sea level, creates a microclimate ideally suited for wine production.

Soil

The Valle de Parras wine region is not only celebrated for its diverse grape varieties and unique climate, but also for its rich tapestry of soils. Among the most common soils, we can mention:

  • Granite-Rich Alluvial Soils: These soils, generously imbued with granite deposits, provide an excellent foundation for grapevines. They offer optimal drainage, ensuring that excess water doesn't linger around the roots, which is crucial for grapevine health. The mineral-rich composition of these soils imparts complexity to the wines, adding subtle mineral notes.
  • Red Clay Soils: Valle de Parras is also blessed with red clay soils, renowned for their exceptional water-retaining properties. These soils ensure that grapevines have access to moisture even during arid periods. This characteristic can lead to wines with well-developed fruit flavours and a certain roundness in their texture.
  • Sandy Loam Soils: Sandy loam soils are prized for their balance, offering good drainage while retaining enough moisture for healthy vine growth. They provide a neutral canvas for grapevines, allowing the varietal characteristics to shine through. Wines from these soils often showcase a harmonious balance of fruit, acidity, and structure.

Sustainability

Sustainability

Valle de Parras has a strong commitment to sustainability that matches the country's values. In this wine region, sustainable practices are deeply rooted in viticulture. Just as Mexico has set ambitious targets for reducing CO2 emissions, Valle de Parras is working towards these goals. To achieve this, wineries are using eco-friendly vineyard management and efficient winemaking processes.

The region's dedication to sustainability reflects Mexico's active role in global sustainability initiatives. Some wineries are adopting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and promoting sustainability and climate change mitigation within the G20.

Valle de Parras exemplifies these principles locally, ensuring that it not only produces exceptional wines but also contributes to a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

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GRAPE VARIETALS
WINE STYLES

‍Valle de Parras Grape Varieties

In the Valle de Parras, the main grapes used for wine production are Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc:

  1. Cabernet Sauvignon: Flourishes in soil with good drainage, thriving in the region's hot days and cooler nights.
  2. Tempranillo: Adapts well to different soils, prospering in Valle de Parras' warm days and cooler evenings.
  3. Chardonnay: Thrives in well-drained, limestone-rich soil, taking advantage of the region's well-balanced climate.
  4. Chenin Blanc: Prefers well-drained soil and excels in the warm days and cool nights of the area.

In addition, wine grapes like Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah (also known as Shiraz) are increasingly planted within the region.

Valle de Parras Wine Styles

In Valle de Parras, four prominent wines shine:

  • Cabernet Sauvignon: These red wines showcase complex aromas of blackcurrant, plum, with hints of tobacco. On the mouth, they are full-bodied, with rich dark berry notes and a balanced acidity.
  • Tempranillo: Elegant and versatile. Aromas of ripe red fruits, with a subtle earthiness. In addition, this medium-bodied wine showcases bright red fruit flavours and a smooth finish.
  • Chardonnay: It has aromas of orchard fruits, citrus, and a touch of tropical notes. On the palate, they feel balanced and crisp, with flavours of apple, lemon, and subtle oak.
  • Chenin Blanc: This variety exhibits aromas of bright green apple, white flowers, and hints of honey. On the palate, they stand out for their crisp acidity and minerality, with flavours of green apple, pear, and honey.

These wines, complemented by Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Syrah, showcase the diversity of the Valle de Parras

altitude

1200-2000 m

rain

80-100 m

soil

The most common soils from this region are granite-rich alluvial, red clay and sandy loam soils.

top varietal

Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc

History of wine

History

The Valle de Parras wine region is steeped in rich history and is recognized as one of the country's most significant and oldest wine-producing areas. The history of wine production in Valle de Parras traces back to the late 16th century, making it an integral part of Mexico's viticultural heritage.

  • Early Beginnings: Valle de Parras' viticulture roots date back to the late 1500s, when Spanish missionaries arrived and began planting grapevines. Their goal was to produce wine for religious use. The region's climate and soil proved ideal for grape cultivation, setting the stage for a long-standing tradition of winemaking.
  • The First Wineries: A major milestone in Valle de Parras' history was the founding of Casa Madero in 1597. Originally called Hacienda San Lorenzo, Casa Madero is now known as the oldest winery in the Americas. Its establishment marked the start of commercial wine production in the region, paving the way for future wineries.
  • 20th Century to Present: Throughout the 20th century, Valle de Parras continued to grow as a wine-producing region despite various challenges. Some of these periods included the Mexican Revolution and governmental restrictions on wine production.
    In the latter half of the century, there was a renewed focus on improving wine quality and expanding the variety of grapes grown in the area.
  • Modern Era and Recognition: Today, Valle de Parras is celebrated for its high-quality wines and has gained both national and international recognition. The region benefits from a unique microclimate characterized by warm days and cool nights, which is ideal for various grape varieties. Modern Valle de Parras wineries continue to innovate, combining traditional methods with contemporary techniques to produce a wide range of wine styles.
  • Cultural Impact and Tourism: The wine culture in Valle de Parras has also led to the growth of wine tourism. Visitors come to the region to explore its historic wineries, savour local wines, and discover the region's rich viticultural heritage. The region also hosts wine festivals and events, further promoting its wine heritage.

While relatively unheralded in the modern Mexican wine industry, the Valle de Parras has a storied viticultural legacy. Currently, the region is home to some of North America's oldest vineyards, like Casa Madero.

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