Santiago Ruiz
Open To Visits
Visitor Tasting Room
About
The O´Rosal district enjoys the most exceptional conditions found in the Rias Baixas Designation of Origin, thanks to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Miño River. Our vineyard can be found close to the estuary of this river, 38 hectares over which we cultivate the native grape varieties: Albariño, Loureiro, Treixadura, Caiño and Godello. Both the espalier system training and the microclimate o the area favour the magnificent levels of ripeness that the grapes achieve before being harvested by hand, placed in small crates for their subsequent hand sorting.
The ancient Santiago Ruiz winery, located in a 17th Century building and surrounded by old vines that are trained on pergolas in the ancient manner, is testimony to the winemaking tradition that has carried on here for generations. It is found in a typically idyllic Galician estate, with the vines surrounded by orange trees and adorned with historic mansions and many beautiful flowers.
Wine has been part of the history of the Santiago Ruiz family since the 19th Century; the family´s maternal grandfather being one of the first people to produce and label wines in Galicia. Once retired, Santiago Ruiz could dedicate himself fully o his true passion and became a great ambassador for wines from the Rias Baixas. His flair as a pioneer led him to bring the first stainless steel tanks to the region, placing him firmly at the cutting edge of winemaking.
Following the unique history of the winery, there is also a not less unique history of the label. Santiago Ruiz´s daughter, Isabel, was celebrating her wedding at the winery house. She drew a little map to help the guest to find the right way and as soon as Santiago Ruiz saw it, he added his name to the map and decided on that inimitable drawing to be the final label. The text on the label is his handwriting.