March 28 Masterclass Somontano winemaker Gonzalo from Bodegas Fábregas

Bodegas Fabregas is a long-standing family business, established in 1883. The founder, Pedro Fábregas Pajés, was the captain of the ship ‘Agustina’, which sailed to Cuba. However, he had long been fascinated by the world of wine and eventually started his own business by purchasing wines from farmers in Barbastro. In 1883, Bodegas Fábregas was born as a winery.

Their viticulture originated in the Somontano region of Aragon. Somontano means “below the mountains” and is literally located at the foot of the central Pyrenees. The area experiences large temperature fluctuations between day and night, and the winds blowing from the mountains cool the vineyards. The soil is diverse, with reddish-brown clay and sandstone. Although not particularly fertile, the soil has good drainage and a high lime content. This terroir ensures that the grapes maintain a good balance of sugar and acidity.

They strive to maximize the terroir’s character. They use low-temperature fermentation and aging in stainless steel tanks to bring out the grapes’ natural flavors and aromas. Some wines are also aged in oak barrels for greater complexity and depth of flavor. Wines made from grape varieties such as Moristel, long-established in Somontano, Garnacha, and Syrah, are characterized by their rich fruitiness and refined flavor, with a harmonious balance of elegant acidity and tannins.

Bodegas Fàbregas has evolved with the times throughout its long history, starting with bulk wine production, playing a key role in establishing the DO Somontano, and ultimately developing its own style of “slow wine,” maintaining flexibility and uniqueness. Today, their wines are highly prized both in Spain and internationally, contributing to the reputation of the Somontano region.