Ronda, Sierra de Malaga, Andalucía, Spain
Vinca Descalzos Viejos, meaning “old bare feet” in reference its earliest inhabitants, the Trinitarians Monks, is located in Malaga just outside of the famous city of Ronda. The convent originated 1505 where the Monks lived and tended orchards and fruit trees. The grounds also consisted of gardens, ponds and water features centered around the convent and the church. Due to its remote location, and a series of falling stones, earthquakes and landslides, the property became in disrepair and was eventually abandoned.
In 1998, the Retamero and Salesi families bought the property and started work on the restoration of the buildings and the winery. They replanted the terraced vineyards and rediscovered religious frescos in the old church buried under numerous layers of lime, chipped walls and moisture. Many of the ponds and water features have also been restored.
The climate is continental with microclimate influences from the Mediterranean and Atlantic oceans. The area is characterized by cold winters and hot, dry summers. The varieties are Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Garnacha, Graciano, Petit Verdot and Merlot. The families have brought such success and acclaim to their winery while preserving and honoring its history.