The charming Spanish Bodega Romaila is located just 10 miles from the city of Toledo, in the small town of Almonacid de Toledo. The village is famous for its Moorish castle, which was conquered by Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar— El Cid— during the reign of Alfonso VI. It is a historic farm with a wine tradition that dates back to the 18th century. Records show the property was planted with vines in the famous Registry of the Marquis of Ensenada, in 1752.
Over 250 years of history are captured in an exciting project that has transformed the family farm into a small winery that produces two exclusive limited edition wines: Finca Romaila and Oh! de Romaila. These oenological treasures speak volumes about the richness of its 26-hectare vineyard, designed by viticulture professor José Ramón Lissarrague.
The grape varieties are tempranillo, syrah, cabernet sauvignon and Graciano, among others. A unique terroir with magnificent strains that produce remarkable and very balanced wines. Review here our international wine selection.
The building that houses Bodega Romaila was custom designed and equipped with the most advanced technologies. It was restored by architect Rafael Manzano–winner of the 2010 Driehaus Award for classic architecture—preserving the essence of the old family farm. Its beautiful courtyard, dominated by an olive tree, is the work of the landscape architect Fernando Caruncho.
Decorated with innovative touches that cleverly incorporate elements of the wine world, the Romaila facilities are intended to experience its magic firsthand. Owners Natalia Álvarez and her husband Ignacio Mateos organize unique oenological tourism events. One of the most attractive activities offered to visitors is taking part in the production processes of the different crops harvested on the estate.
Depending on the season, they can engage in grape harvesting in autumn and winter, pruning in spring and honey collecting, which is done only two days a year at the beginning of summer. In addition, the winery offers seasonal falconry days for pest control, with Harris eagle and royal owl for rabbit and hare, and hawk for hunting magpies.
The unique experiences at Bodega Romaila culminate with a lunch and a cooking demonstration on the farm, under the tutelage of Michelin-starred chefs from La Mancha and Madrid. Of course, all activities are always accompanied by the fine Romaila wines. ■
