Underground barrels and tasting rooms, the innovation of a winery in Ronda

The winery Doña Felisa in Ronda has started the construction of the second phase of its new facilities. After launching last year the area dedicated to the production and marketing of its various wines, it is now undertaking the creation of an area that will house an underground barrel room, wine bar, visitor reception, tasting room, shop, and a convention hall with a capacity for up to 500 people. The construction of these new facilities will cost 4 million euros.

The Losantos family, owners of the winery, hope that these works can be completed by the middle of next year and proceed with their inauguration in June 2026 if everything goes according to plan. Once completed, the entire process of transferring the winery from its previous facilities will be finished, which began with the planting of about 22 hectares of vineyards on the Amaya estate. Overall, this project represents an investment of 11 million euros.

The facilities are designed to reach a production of 400,000 bottles. Those in charge are confident in the market penetration of Ronda wines, betting on quality and innovation together to produce their different varieties.

The new facility, named Viña Amaya in honor of the founders' granddaughter, stands on 22 hectares of organic vineyard planted five years ago. Its proximity to the Roman ruins of Acinipo, historically known as the Land of Wines, provides an exceptional terrain for creating great wines.

The production benefits from state-of-the-art technology, such as ovoid concrete tanks, automated climate control in all production phases (including the production of sparkling wines), and a gravity-fed harvesting system that minimizes must oxidation.

One of the most innovative elements is the Osiris system, a device that uses the natural CO₂ from fermentation to perform automatic pumping over, improving the extraction of aromas, color, and tannins without mechanical intervention.

It also adds its energy self-sufficiency, counting on a system of 300 solar panels and an energy storage system that allows it to operate disconnected from the electrical grid.

Rejected Purchase Attempts

The Losantos family has also confirmed that they have rejected several purchase offers from large national wine groups to acquire this company, which is currently valued at about 20 million euros.

"It is possible to grow with our own resources, innovate without losing our roots, and resist the siren call of large conglomerates that want to absorb family businesses," the winery stated in a release. Moreover, they have reaffirmed the property's commitment to Ronda and maintaining their family business model.