Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/992999
{ SOMMjournal.com } 79 1944, is the oldest of the three major cooperatives. Situated near the town of Cariñena, it works with more than 600 growers spread across 8,600 acres. The Bodegas San Valero Par ticular range of - fers excellent value and has helped pave the way in popularizing Cariñena wine in the U.S. Grandes Vinos, the largest of the three co-ops, manages 10,000 acres of vine - yards across all of Cariñena's 14 sub- districts. A leader in clonal research, the enologists at Grandes Vinos have identi- fied four clones that are now mandatory for replantings in the region. Bodegas Paniza, meanwhile, resides in the most remote and highest par t of southwestern Cariñena, where slate-laden soils domi - nate most of the hillside vineyards. Some of the vines here date as far back as 1906. Because it represents 400 different grow - ers, one gets the sense that the entire village of Paniza works for the co-op. Perhaps the greatest asset of this region is its humility; the growers, winemakers, and export directors demonstrate great pride in Cariñena and its wines. They are driven by a sincere desire to bring the world exceptional wines with a regional distinction: an effort that came to fruition at the Global Garnacha Summit this past April in Napa, California, and will continue in other U.S. markets later this year. Old vines dominate the landscape at Bodegas San Valero in Cariñena. its connection to the Garnacha grape makes Cariñena a noteworthy experience based on its history, current winemaking, and future prospects.