Since its establishment in 1983 when Principe de Viana was founded in Murchante, the company has embarked on a trajectory of remarkable success. In a mere span of 25 years, it has emerged as one of the foremost and most esteemed wineries in Navarra. Carlos III of Navarra, upon receiving news of his grandson Carlos' birth, expressed his immense joy by bestowing four thousand gold pieces upon the messenger. This act of generosity reflected the high hopes he held for Carlos, who would ascend to the throne. Before Carlos reached the age of two, he was granted the illustrious and unprecedented title of Principe de Viana, a title intended to set him apart.
The coronation took place in Tudela on 12th January 1423, as a testament to the King's profound affection for his grandson. However, in a tragic turn of events King Carlos passed away suddenly. Carlos' mother, Blanca, and her husband assumed the throne, but she too passed away prematurely a few years later. This should have paved the way for his imminent coronation but instead his father Juan’s ambition led him to instigate civil war against the young prince. Carlos, the legitimate Aire, spent the remainder of his life devoid of his rightful place. After he died, his remains were transferred to Poblet and he has since been venerated as a hero and saint, immortalized as a champion of justice and human rights. The legend of the Principe de Viana was born in 1423, and ever since, this title has been bestowed upon all heirs to the throne of Navarra, and subsequently, Spain. The winery takes great pride in upholding the name and spirit associated with this esteemed title.
Bodegas Príncipe de Viana was established in 1983 as a flagship project of Caja Rural de Navarra, an agricultural lending institution dedicated to providing financial support for the sustainable growth of Navarra's significant farming sector. A total of 486 hectares of ancient vines are meticulously managed; in 2003, an additional 405 hectares of vineyards were established on a rolling chalky plateau at the confluence of the Aragón and Ebro Rivers. The climate in this area is characterized by a sporadic interplay of Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Continental influences. Whilst the persistent "Cierzo" winds minimize the occurrence of plant diseases. The vines thrive in nutrient-deficient soils, which are conducive to the roots delving deeper into the earth and enhancing the complexity of the wine. The terrain is rocky, with soil profiles ranging from loam to silty clay loam with excellent drainage. Their vineyards are blessed with an ideal climate for producing high-quality wines, characterized by long summers, moderate temperatures and rainfall, and a marked temperature difference between day and night. This promotes optimal ripening of grape clusters while maintaining good acidity. Bodegas Príncipe de Viana practice sustainable viticulture, with a focus on preserving the aromatic integrity of the grapes, preventing water scarcity, and promoting balance and freshness. Harvest is conducted during the night in order to minimize grape oxidation and prevent the loss of aromatic characteristics. Their innovative method involves freezing the grape skins without freezing the pulp. This causes the breakdown of the skin cells, where the components that contribute to the colour, aroma, and structure of the wine are created. The history of their winery is deeply intertwined with the historical legacy of their land, Navarra, and Carlos de Evreux, the first Prince of Viana. Since its establishment in 1423, this title has been held by the heirs to the throne of Navarra, and later, Spain.
Bodegas Príncipe de Viana was founded over 30 years ago with an entrepreneurial spirit. Today, it stands as a benchmark in research, innovation, and customer-centricity. It symbolizes tradition, continuity, and renewal.
