Vega Sicilia Plans to Start Producing Albariño Wines in Rías Baixas DO

The brand is building a winery in Pontevedra and plans to produce 300,000 bottles per year sold under two new brands

Famed wine brand Vega Sicilia is embarking on a new project which, until now, has been something of a secret. The company is heading to Galicia to open a winery in Rías Baixas DO, with big plans to start producing single varietal Albariño wines. Construction of the winery is underway in a small village called Crecente, in Pontevedra, close to the border with Portugal.

With a total investment of 20 million euros, the Alvarez family has purchased 24 hectares at the moment with plans to purchase more throughout the designation of origin. The company's goal is to produce 300,000 bottles per year between its two new brands: Deiva and Arnela. Wines from the former are expected to come to market in 2025, and from the latter, the more premium brand, in 2026. This is a brand new venture for Vega Sicilia. Although the brand did endeavor for several years to make white wine from its winery in Ribera de Duero, those plans were eventually canceled when management decided that the quality was not high enough.

This special announcement coincides with the 40th anniversary of Vega Sicilia's acquisition by the Alvarez family. The brand is considered to be one of the most profitable in the world, with revenue of 60 million euros last year. Its move into Rías Baixas DO is positive for Galicia as it will increase the visibility of the region’s wines.