Cerro la Barca

Juan Sojo and Ángel Luis González started Cerro la Barca in 2003. The two met in oenology school and bonded over their desire to revive the reputation of their native Extremadura, in western Spain near the Portuguese border. 

About the Winemaker

Cerro la Barca

Juan Sojo and Ángel Luis González founded Cerro la Barca in 2003, driven by their shared ambition to restore the prestige of their native Extremadura, situated in western Spain near the Portuguese border. Although its viticultural history dates back to 550 BCE, Extremadura endured significant setbacks from phylloxera and powdery mildew during the 19th century. The resurgence of winemaking began gradually after the Spanish Civil War and has steadily gained momentum since. Presently, the region predominantly produces bulk Vino de Mesa (table wine).

Cerro la Barca is situated within the Ribera del Guadiana region, which attained DO status in 1999. Extremadura, with its capital in Mérida, is divided into two subregions: Càceres in the north and Badajoz in the south.

Cerro la Barca

The Region

Extremadura, Spain

Extremadura, situated in the southwestern part of Spain, produces natural wines that embody the region's rich winemaking tradition and rugged beauty. With vineyards spread across sun-drenched plains and rocky hillsides, Extremadura benefits from a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. Here, winemakers embrace sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention in the cellar, allowing the true expression of the fruit and the land to shine through. Indigenous grape varieties such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Juan Garcia thrive in this diverse landscape, yielding wines of exceptional depth and complexity. From bold and robust reds to crisp and aromatic whites, Extremadura's natural wines capture the essence of the region's vibrant terroir and cultural heritage, inviting drinkers to experience the true essence of Spanish winemaking with each sip.