Norrel Robertson

‘The Flying Scotsman’ that Landed in Calatayud

Originally from Dundee, Scotland, Norrel Robertson (1969), known as El Escocés Volante (“The Flying Scotsman”), is a Master of Wine who has made Calatayud, Aragón his home since 2003. With a passion for Garnacha and a flair for expressive winemaking, he crafts wines that reflect both his Scottish roots and his deep connection to Spanish terroir.

He began his journey into the world of wine began after earning a degree in Politics and International Relations from the University of Aberdeen. His early career in wine sales and buying sparked a deeper interest, leading him to pursue winemaking across renowned regions like Chianti, Portugal, Australia, France, and Chile. In 2000, he achieved the prestigious Master of Wine title, earning the Robert Mondavi Award for best theory performance. Furthering his expertise, he completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Viticulture and Enology at Lincoln University in New Zealand.

"The first time I tried a wine from Calatayud I was in the UK, and I was struck by its intensity and pronounced fruity notes." - Norrel Robertson to Vignerons

In 2003, Norrel moved to Spain to work with International Wine Services. Captivated by the old Garnacha vineyards of Calatayud, he decided to establish his own project, El Escocés Volante. Here, he focuses on producing wines that express the unique characteristics of high-altitude, old-vine Garnacha, embracing organic and regenerative viticulture practices.

Norrel's wines, such as Dos Dedos de Frente (to have common sense) and El Puño  (The Fist), are known for their bold names and expressive profiles, reflecting his commitment to showcasing the terroir of Aragón. Beyond his own label, he consults for wineries across Spain, Chile, and South Africa, sharing his expertise and passion for authentic winemaking.

“We believe in offering quality wines at fair and honest prices” - Norrel Robertson

In recognition of his contributions to Spanish wine, Norrel was inducted into the Gran Orden de Caballeros del Vino in 2020. His journey from Scotland to Spain exemplifies a dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich viticultural heritage of his adopted homeland.