Rioja Women’s History Month Tribute 2025: Maria Urrutia of CVNE (Compañia Vinicola del Norte de España)
Family is a powerful concept in many societies and also one of paramount importance in Rioja. Often, it is generations of growers or wineries that are taking charge of a family legacy. María Urruita of CVNE is a fifth generation descendent of the centenary and famous CVNE winery, often referred to as Grand Cru Rioja. We poised a few questions for her and are incredibly excited to share her thoughtful and generous responses.
1. What does it mean to you to be a 5th generation family member at the helm of CVNE?
To be the fifth generation at the helm of CVNE is both a tremendous honor and a deep responsibility. It connects me to a legacy of dedication, craftsmanship, and passion that my ancestors built over the years, but also challenges me to ensure that we continue to innovate while respecting the traditions that have shaped CVNE’s identity. Every decision we make today is not only for the present, but also for the generations to come—ensuring that the excellence of our wines, our commitment to sustainability, and our connection to the Rioja region endure for years to come. It is a privilege to carry forward this story and to contribute to its ongoing evolution, knowing how much of it has been built by the hard work, vision, and love of those who came before me.
2. What is your favorite wine?
My favorite wine is not defined by a specific brand, but by a particular style. I gravitate towards wines that are fulfilling from the moment you encounter them—wines that have a nose so captivating it knocks you out, drawing you in immediately. When you taste them, they offer a deep, pleasurable experience that lingers, allowing you to truly savor the moment. It’s a wine that invites you to relax and enjoy, without haste, appreciating every sip.
3. What is your most memorable CVNE wine moment?
A wine moment can be very different. If we think inside the winery, this will be the harvest period. The vineyards, the grapes, the smell of wine once the grapes arrive at the winery. The movement of people at the winery. Every harvest is special and different.
Outside the winery, there have been family reunions since I was a young girl. We would all gather together, open wines, current vintages, future and back vintages, and see the evolution of the wines.
4. What is your favorite place in Haro besides CVNE?
It is the best place to go for a walk like in the vineyards, or walking along the beautiful banks of the Ebro River. Also, a coffee in the lovely town square, Plaza de la Paz, and to eat lamb at the famous traditional Terete restaurant.
5. What do you think is the best visit option at CVNE and how is it best for Americans to schedule a visit?
Best visit at CVNE is the Imperial visit. You will visit the Eiffel cellar, the underground cellars where you can see where the wines are stored, bottles from the first years of CVNE, in 1879, and finish with a tasting of Imperial Reserva and Gran Reserva. These can be scheduled on our website: www.cvne.com
