Freixenet enters Rioja

The giant cava group has purchased Santamaría Lopez winery in the Rioja Alavesa region for 10 million euros. This winery, which has a production capacity of 250,000 9L cases produces Solar Viejo and private label wines. According to Freixenet president Josep Lluis Bonet Ferrer, the aim for the latest wineries is to invest in it, launching new labels, and moving away from volume-based business.