Vinos Pijoan "Pobre Diabla" Guadalupe Red 2023

Vinos Piojan was founded in 2002 in the Valle de Guadalupe just north of Ensenada in Baja California, Mexico by Pau Pijoan. Pau’s background in science, as a veterinarian, informed his dedication and methodical approach to winemaking — with help from his advisor, Hugo D’Acosta, who was a key figure in the Valle de Guadalupe wine world.

The Piojan’s estate is located roughly 3km from the Pacific Ocean, which asserts its influence with morning fog and cool nights. They aim to craft honest wines that showcase their diverse local terroir, which includes sandy riverbanks, decomposed granite, and iron-rich red soils. They are also dedicated to dry farming their vines, which is uncommon in their arid climate and sun-drenched terrain. They farm regeneratively and organically without certification, which is extremely cost-prohibitive in Mexico.

In 2016, Pau’s daughter, Silvana, began making her own wines under the family domain as well as her solo project, Arbol de Fuego. Silvana has a background as a classical dancer with a degree from the National School of Classic and Contemporary Dance in Mexico City. She also underwent training as a sommelier and studied with a master wine and cidermaker.

This brings us to her "Pobre Diabla" Guadalupe Red 2023, which is 80% Grenache and 20% Muscat. This is a vibrant red blend that almost presents as a white wine if you close your eyes. Aromas of herbs, a light spice note, and a hint of sumac are mixed with crayon wax, pomegranate, and mandarin orange. The palate is an invigorating and balanced mix of strawberry, spice, tar, kelp (possibly due to proximity to the ocean), and salinity. This wine has energy for days! Zero sulfur added. ~Jeremy Hernandez