Juan Carlos Lopez de Lacalle
Juan Carlos López de Lacalle is a leading figure in Spanish viticulture, renowned for his innovative approach and his quest for the authentic expression of terroir.
Born into a family with a rich winegrowing tradition, Juan Carlos developed a passion for viticulture from an early age. In 1985, he founded Bodegas Artadi in Rioja Alavesa, with the ambition of producing wines that faithfully reflect their terroir. From the outset, he distinguished himself by his avant-garde vision, moving away from traditional Rioja methods to focus on fuller, more generous and concentrated wines.
Juan Carlos' philosophy is based on respect for terroir and indigenous grape varieties. He favors low yields, old vines and high-altitude sites to obtain rich, complex wines. His conviction that the value of a great wine is intimately linked to the land, its environment and its people is at the heart of his approach.
Expansion and Recognition
Under his leadership, Artadi has expanded beyond Rioja, with estates such as Artazu in Navarre and El Sequé in Alicante, each showcasing the emblematic grape varieties of their region. Artadi wines, notably Viña El Pisón, have received international acclaim, reflecting Juan Carlos' commitment to excellence.
In addition to his work at his estates, Juan Carlos is vice-president of the International Wine Academy, actively contributing to the promotion of global wine culture.
Juan Carlos' passion for viticulture has been passed on to the next generation. His children, Carlos and Patricia, are now involved in the management of Artadi, ensuring the continuity of the family vision and commitment to quality.
Thanks to his dedication and innovation, Juan Carlos López de Lacalle has played a central role in redefining Spanish wines, emphasizing the importance of terroir and authenticity.