Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/884376
68 / the tasting panel / october 2017 BRAND PROFILE J. García Carrión now produces wine in eight DOs (denominations of origin), with a particular focus on wines from Rioja and Ribera del Duero and the production of Cava; other regions where the company's production takes place include DO La Mancha, DO Toro, DO Rueda, and DO Valdepeñas. It also has two production facilities in Andalusia—one in Huelva and the other in Alhambra—though they're not tied to a particular denomi- nation of origin. Of its wine brands, Viña Arnáiz is focused on making wine in Ribera del Duero and Rueda, while Pata Negra is more widespread in its production—covering all eight winemaking regions J. García Carrión produces in. One of the most awarded wine brands in the world, Pata Negra is also a key player in promoting each region's specific varietal winemaking focus, like Verdejo in Rueda and Tempranillo in Valdepeñas. Jaume Serra focuses solely on Cava produced in the traditional method, and its Cristalino line is considered by many to be the top value brand in the category. Distribution in the United States is nationally-focused, with key markets in California, Texas, Florida, Iowa, and New Jersey. And while there is significant on-premise presence, the majority of sales are at the retail level. "We are a retail-driven supplier, though in the coming year we will be looking at different opportunities to significantly increase our on-premise exposure," Bernth says. One way to do this is through J. García Carrión's Cava program. "Our Cavas are the best values in the category, and we want to be recognized as the 'go-to' supplier," says Bernth. "We are launching several new entries in the coming months that we are very excited about, including the introduction of Pata Negra Cava, a traditional method sparkling wine in three styles: Brut Reserva, Brut Rosé, and Organic Brut, with packaging designed in partnership with the Casa Milà Museum in Barcelona, which was designed by Antoni Gaudí." Other initiatives include increased focus on distribution of canned products, including Don Simon Sangria (the No. 1 Sangria in the world with 9 million cases produced) and the first U.S. launch of Spain's hottest new canned beverage trend: tinto de verano, a lightly-sparkling, wine-based drink popular at parties and often served over ice. Says José of these latest goals: "It's been almost 50 years since I started working at our small family winery, and yet I feel we still have much to do." Adds Bernth, "2018 is going to be an exciting year for our company." The wines of J. García Carrión are imported by CIV USA. J. García Carrión's Viña Arnáiz label makes wine in Ribera del Duero and Rueda, and its winery is located in the city of Burgos in Spain.