A Winery for a Prestigious New Partnership

This proposal was developed during a private competition for a winery for Baron Benjamin de Rothschild and Vega Sicilia’s new joint venture in the Rioja Alta region. The core idea was to build the winery into and underneath the existing vineyard on a sloping hillside. Vineyards and wine production are one. Vinification is to take place in three distinct concrete structures whose sizes and shapes are determined by each building’s specific function in the winemaking process. Only the fourth and social building protrudes beyond the surface of the vineyard, creating a visual icon to greet guests. This sculptural building clad in wood accommodates all administrative functions. The contrast between the concrete structures and the wooden pavilion also represents the two different families coming together in the creation of the new wine concept.