Familia Martínez Zabala

Faustino, the elite wine at the Swedish sports gala

Grupo Faustino has always been committed to talent and respect for the values of determination and effort inherent to a job well done. This is the objective of many the elite athletes who were awarded at the IDROTTSGALAN (Sports Gala) last night, an event attended by the Swedish Royal Family and VIPs from the world of sport. 

Faustino participated in this annual sports ceremony in Sweden at the dinner with 2500 guests who were served three of our wines: Faustino Cava Brut Reserva, Faustino Art Collection Viura Chardonnay  and Faustino VII tinto.

Faustino was the only winery with the honour of participating in the biggest event on Sweden's annual media and social calendar. Outstanding athletes in sports including cross-country skiing, track and field, football, table-tennis and swimming, attended the Gala. 

Lourdes Martínez Zabala (Grupo Faustino’s Owner) and Francisco Honrubia (CEO) were the winery’s best ambassadors to represent the company in a country where the value of the land and sustainable, organic products play a fundamental role in the local diet. According to Lourdes Martínez Zabala, “Faustino was the first winery in the Rioja region to have certified organic vineyards. The earth is our cornerstone. We are the biggest vineyard owners in Rioja because only by owning the land are we able to guarantee the quality of our wine. Thanks to that quality, Faustino is present in over 130 countries today.”

Sweden, a relevant market for Spanish wine

Sweden imports a large amount of Spanish sparkling wine, reporting growth in value of 23.6%, more than double the growth in volume. In recent years Spain has been adapting to the requirements of the Scandinavian market, increasing its area of organic vineyards, and identifying a real opportunity to become the main supplier of organic wine for Sweden.

Faustino Cava Brut: pioneer Cava in Rioja 

This Cava, made from Macabeo and Chardonnay grapes produced in our own vineyards, is clear and bright with a straw yellow colour and golden flecks and tiny bubbles. It has a fruity bouquet, reminiscent of white fruit and apples, with hints of flowers. It is fresh, cheerful and well-balanced. 

It is perfect to serve with cold meats, roast poultry and duck confit. Stewed or baked potatoes and griddled mushrooms. It is excellent with fish or seafood. Caviar and cava are a perfect pairing. It is also excellent when served with strong aged cheese. 

Faustino Art Collection Viura Chardonnay: strong and sweet

This white wine, made from 80% Viura grapes and 20% Chardonnay, is one of the latest member of Faustino's Art Collection family. It is a clear, bright, yellow wine with shimmering green tones. It is also characterised by its intensity and sweetness.

It pairs well with most fish, seafood and vegetables. Fondue, goat's cheese and Roquefort cheese. Pasta with basil, béchamel or cheese sauce. It even pairs well with stewed, baked or mashed potatoes.

Faustino VII red: an elegant Tempranillo

100% Tempranillo grapes aged for 6 months in American oak barrels. It is clear, bright, cherry-red wine, tending towards maroon. It has a pleasant bouquet, hints of ripe red berries and a sweetness from its barrel ageing. Balanced. Fresh and elegant with fruity and barrel-aged notes. 

It is perfect to serve with all types of barbecued meat and potatoes, but also with marinera- style fish and seafood dishes. It also pairs well with rice dishes and all types of pasta. Also with semi-mature cheese and desserts with berries.