Araex: Grand Plans

From modest beginnings in Rioja Alavesa, one man’s vision has taken him across the major wine regions of Spain, preserving and promoting their individuality while tackling the fragmentation that has hampered the country’s potential.

JUST OVER 20 years ago, a company called put down roots in the relatively unknown sub-region of Rioja Alavesa. Its aim was to tackle the highly fragmented nature of this Basque enclave by bringing nine small and medium-sized wineries into a group capable of making a real impact in international markets. Since these early beginnings back in 1993, this collection of representatives from the various Alavesa villages and vineyards has seen sales grow to a position where it now accounts….