Meet Martina Pariente

What is your first memory related to the world of wine?

The grape harvests in "the other house" of my grandfather José Pariente, as we called the small winery where he made his wine. We would get together, cousins, uncles, aunts and uncles, etc. For a weekend to harvest his vineyard and then we would tread the grapes in his old usillo press.

Who are your references?

First of all, my mother, Victoria Pariente, as an oenologist and pioneer in winemaking.  Marisol Bueno is an example of a great winemaker and a point of reference for the Rías Baixas DO.

A professional moment/milestone that you remember above all others?

When José Pariente Verdejo 2017 was released, my first vintage as Technical Director of Bodegas José Pariente. Excitement and nerves in equal measure.

What do you ask from a wine?

I want it to provoke interest when I taste it for the first time, interest to know more about that wine, varieties, elaboration, etc. But above all, that it makes me enjoy it.

A wine that has made an impression on you?

Silex, A.O.C Pouilly-Fumé. For its elegance, finesse, complexity not incompatible with subtlety.

What changes do you think are needed in the wine industry?

More than changes, I think we should continue to bring the world of wine closer to the people in an enjoyable, simple and barrier-free way, so that any profile of person (even without training in the sector) sees wine as something accessible, to enjoy with friends and family, without great paraphernalia. I think this would be the way to generate interest and grow the wine culture, which I believe that, as a wine-producing country, we should have.