Cenicienta

ORIGIN AND HISTORY

The Cenicienta is one of the rarest and most enigmatic red grape varieties in Spain’s viticultural heritage. Its name, as evocative as it is revealing, refers to the greyish, ashen tone found on the underside of its leaves.

The story of its rediscovery begins precisely in our vineyard, Finca Saltamontes, when in one of the oldest plots, a single red vine appeared among a sea of white varieties. That discovery sparked our curiosity: it looked unlike anything we knew. After years of observation, genetic identification, and microvinification, we confirmed it was an unknown, uncatalogued variety, which we named Cenicienta for its discreet nature and its naturally ashen hue.

As the discovering winery, at Javier Sanz Viticultor we feel deeply proud to have recovered and given voice to this forgotten variety. It is not only a reflection of our commitment to research and respect for vineyard diversity, but also an act of remembrance—looking back to the past in order to build the future of wine.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CENICIENTA GRAPE

It has glossy, deeply serrated leaves, small cylindrical and loose clusters (which encourages good aeration and sun exposure), and white pulp streaked with red. Its skin is thick, remaining crisp even at the ripest stages.

It is also a highly vigorous vine with poor fruit set, producing grapes of great quality but low yields, requiring constant care and attention in the vineyard.

The grape produces wines with high acidity and freshness, along with a marked structure and elegance.

WHAT DOES A CENICIENTA WINE TASTE LIKE?

Cenicienta wine is light, expressive, and deeply original. On the nose it shows notes of red fruits (redcurrant, raspberry), wildflowers, subtle spices, and an earthy or mineral undertone. On the palate it is fluid, with a medium body, fine tannins, and a vibrant acidity that gives it energy and ageing potential.

The wine “Colorado”, made without artifice—without oak or concrete—focuses on the fruity and authentic character of this variety, reflecting its pure and original essence.