La Casa Vieja

Humberto Toscano's winemaking journey is a captivating tale that unfolds in the quaint surroundings of San Antonio de las Miñas, within the walls of an adobe ranch steeped in history since the 1800s. Born and raised in this picturesque locale, Humberto's decision to return to the family estate marked a pivotal moment in his life, as he sought the tranquility of rural living. What sets Humberto apart is his unwavering commitment to organic practices – the three hectares of vines on his estate have thrived without the use of chemicals, embodying a harmonious coexistence with nature.

Crafting a limited portfolio of four wines exclusively from estate-grown fruit, Humberto employs a winemaking philosophy that is both direct and minimal. Embracing the old-school techniques, his macerations are extended, and aging predominantly occurs in seasoned barrels and tinajas, imparting a distinctive character to each bottle. Humberto's hands-on approach extends to every aspect of production, including meticulous hand-labeling, reinforcing the artisanal quality of his creations. Notably, he refrains from adding sulfites (SO2) at any stage, allowing the true essence of the grapes to shine through in every sip.

The uniqueness of Humberto Toscano's wines lies not only in the rich history of the estate but also in the preservation of ungrafted Misión and Palomino vines, some of which are believed to surpass 120 years in age. Recently introducing new plantings of Misión and Garnacha, Humberto Toscano's wines are a testament to his dedication to heritage, organic viticulture, and the artistry of traditional winemaking. Tasting his creations promises an experience that encapsulates the spirit of the land and the passion of a winemaker deeply connected to his roots.

About the Winemaker

La Casa Vieja

Humberto Toscano's winemaking journey unfolds within the historic confines of San Antonio de las Miñas, an adobe ranch steeped in centuries-old lore. Raised amidst this idyllic setting, Humberto's return to the family estate marked a profound moment, embracing the serenity of rural life. His distinction lies in steadfast adherence to organic practices, nurturing three hectares of vineyards sans chemicals, fostering harmony with nature.

Crafting a select portfolio of four wines sourced solely from estate-grown grapes, Humberto champions a winemaking ethos that is both direct and minimalist. Embracing time-honored techniques, he extends macerations and favors aging in seasoned barrels and tinajas, lending each bottle a unique character.

The Region

Baja California, Mexico

Natural wine production in Baja California, Mexico, embodies the region's spirit of innovation and its unique blend of Old World tradition and New World creativity. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, Baja California's diverse microclimates and terroirs provide an ideal canvas for winemakers to experiment with a wide array of grape varieties. From the coastal plains of the Valle de Guadalupe to the rugged terrain of the Valle de Ojos Negros, the region's vineyards thrive under the warm sun and cool ocean breezes. Natural winemakers in Baja California embrace sustainable farming practices, eschewing synthetic chemicals in favor of organic and biodynamic methods to nurture healthy vines and vibrant ecosystems. In the cellar, they employ minimalist techniques, allowing the grapes' natural flavors to shine through with spontaneous fermentation and minimal sulfur usage. The resulting wines are a testament to the region's terroir, with bright fruit flavors, lively acidity, and a sense of place that reflects the rugged beauty of Baja California. Whether enjoyed with local cuisine or savored on their own, natural wines from Baja California offer a taste of Mexico's burgeoning wine scene and the promise of discovery with every sip.