Appointment of first female president of Rioja DOCa
As long time supporters and huge fans of the wine of Bodegas Ontañôn, we are thrilled that Raquel Pérez Cuevas, has been elected by her peers to this important role.
We all know and love Conrado, whose passion and expert knowledge bring Ontañón wines to life at our tastings. His deep understanding and enthusiasm make each event memorable.
Whilst he flies the globe promoting these fabulous wines, the new president, Raquel Pérez Cuevas, daughter of the founder, has been hands on at the helm of Bodegas Ontañón since 2010.
A fourth-generation winemaker with a degree in oenology from the Universidad de La Rioja, she blends tradition with forward-thinking flair. Raised in the village of Quel in Rioja Oriental, where her father Gabriel founded the winery, Raquel has been steeped in the culture and craft of winemaking from childhood.
While her brother Rubén is head winemaker, Raquel has been deeply involved in the business side of the family projects, helping shape Ontañón’s legacy and leading their more recent successful journeys west exploring winemaking in Ribera del Duero and Rueda.
Now, in a landmark moment, Raquel has been appointed president of the Regulatory Council of DOCa Rioja, just as the region celebrates its 100th anniversary. She’s the first woman ever to hold the role, and her words say it all:
“It’s an honour to be the first female president of the Regulatory Council – although I won’t be the only one… female presence in the world of wine is becoming more important every day, with more and more qualified women.”
Decanter magazine reported that she’ll be leading the region through a challenging time. She will be answering to 13,000 growers and almost 600 wineries in the region. In recent years, overproduction has led to falling grape and wine prices and there is a concern that with fewer young people entering the industry, continuity may be at risk. Her leadership will be key to guiding Rioja forward. In her first speech, Raquel called for unity, open discussion, and loyalty to the region that made them who they are, so Rioja can keep shining on the world stage.
Here at Hattersleys, we have been working with Ontañón for over 20 years, and along with many of you enjoying their wines over this time. We remain incredibly proud of all Bodegas Ontañón and Queiron wines we are happy to put on our shelves as well as the massively popular Rippa Dorii wines from Rueda and Ribera del Duero.
Congratulations Raquel, we look forward to seeing what you will accomplish during your 4 years at the top.
