2011 El Sacramento Magnum, Viñas Leizaola, Rioja, Spain, Rioja DOC

In Belgium, the name Cordonnier is linked to wine, in the distribution in Belgium and in the wine-growing in Bordeaux with famous castles such as Dutruch Grand Poujeaux.  

Etienne Cordonnier, whose mother's surname is Leizaola, wanted to go back to his roots. In 2011, he had the opportunity to buy a vineyard in Laguardia (Rioja Alavesa) that met his quality requirements with the ambition to produce very great wines.

The Rioja Alavesa enjoys a favourable climate for the production of fine wines and a variety of terroirs that give them complexity. Due to its ideal location and its unique terroir, El Sacramento offers the balance needed to produce very great wines. The magic of the terroir gives a unique expression. Viticulture is carried out with respect for the environment by protecting the soil and subsoil.

The vinification takes place in small barrels so that each plot can be vinified separately. After de-stemming, alcoholic fermentation is carried out, with temperature control and daily pumping over. The wine then passes into French oak barrels where it undergoes malolactic fermentation and ageing.