Terroir Gutiérrez Colosía
The vines of Gutiérrez Colosía are planted mainly on typical, almost blinding white albariza soils, in the zone of Jerez Superior (Balbaina Alta, Balbaina Baja and Los Tercios). Albariza is more than 60% limestone, or calcium carbonate, inherited from the Oligocene (between 33 and 23 million years ago), a period when the whole region was under water. When it rains, this soil becomes a sort of thick paste; but when the sun shines, it becomes a smooth crust, which reflects the light, retains the humidity and protects the vines. Apart from albariza, there are also the «barros» (clayish areas) and the «arenas» (sandy soils); but grapes coming from theses areas are mainly used for making oloroso. The geography and the climate conditions are unique: nowhere else can a wine be made in such a way. Vineyards are close to the sea and in summer, when the temperature is approaching 40°C, la «marera», the sea wind blows on the vines and bring them coolness and humidity. This wind comes from the eastern Mediterranean (it is then called “El Levante”) or from the west, the Atlantic (it is then called «El Poniente»). Both play an important role in the microclimate enabling the flor to develop in the casks. At Gutiérrez Colosía, these conditions are really unique: their cellar is the only one whose «naves de crianza» are located on the banks of the Guadalete river and thus benefits by it to the maximum. It is also the estate that has the best natural maturation process.