Forging a Path Forward: Unity and Vision for Rioja's Future

A Historic Appointment: Breaking Barriers in the Wine Sector

Just as Spain's venerable Rioja wine region commemorates a century of excellence, a groundbreaking announcement has emerged from its Regulatory Council: the election of Raquel Pérez Cuevas as its inaugural female president. This appointment is a testament to evolving leadership within the industry, with Pérez Cuevas expressing her profound honor and conviction that she represents the vanguard of a growing female presence in the global wine landscape.

Navigating Complex Terrains: Leadership Amidst Industry Challenges

Assuming office for a four-year term, President Pérez Cuevas is set to guide the DOCa Rioja through a period fraught with considerable challenges. Her mandate includes addressing critical issues such as widespread overproduction and a noticeable downturn in sales, which have adversely impacted grape and bottle prices. Furthermore, she confronts the looming concern of generational succession, as fewer young individuals are entering the wine sector, alongside deeply rooted political sensitivities within the region’s wine associations. Her recent election as president of Grupo Rioja, an influential consortium representing a significant portion of the appellation's sales, places her in a unique position to mediate these complex dynamics.

Bridging Divides: Uniting Stakeholders for Collective Progress

A key focus for Pérez Cuevas will be to mend historical rifts between the powerful Grupo Rioja and the numerous small to medium-sized wineries, some of whom feel their interests have been historically marginalized. Despite her near-unanimous election, some associations expressed dissent or abstained from the vote, underscoring the fragmented landscape she inherits. In her inaugural address, Pérez Cuevas emphasized a commitment to inclusive dialogue, robust debate, and unwavering loyalty to the appellation, aiming to solidify Rioja's esteemed position in the global wine arena.

From Vineyards to Boardrooms: A Profile in Leadership

Hailing from Quel in southeastern Rioja, Pérez Cuevas brings a wealth of experience and academic rigor to her new role. Her extensive educational background in agricultural engineering and oenology, coupled with an Executive MBA, underpins her deep understanding of both the agricultural and business facets of the wine industry. Since 2010, she has served as CEO of her family's enterprise, Bodegas Ontañón, significantly expanding its reach into other prominent wine regions under her astute leadership. Her gratitude extended to her predecessor and industry peers highlights a collaborative spirit essential for the ambitious journey ahead, promising a vibrant future for one of the world's most cherished wine regions.