A Day in the Vineyards of Sierra de Gredos
An exclusive vineyard tasting at Bodega Soto Manrique, and a deep dive into a family-driven winemaking movement guided by an expert wine journalist.
Your experience begins with a scenic drive into the rugged beauty of the Sierra de Gredos, where granite soils and high elevations create the perfect conditions for elegant, expressive wines. Our destination is Soto Manrique in the steep village of Cebreros. Founded by the charismatic Jesús "Chuchi" Soto and now carried forward alongside his daughter Belén, this project is rooted in reviving old vineyards and restoring pride to the region’s winemaking heritage.
During the visit, you will learn how their focus on finesse and terroir over power has attracted international acclaim, including standout scores from Robert Parker. After exploring the winery, we will head to the breathtaking Alto de la Estrella—the highest vineyard in Cebreros. Surrounded by nature, we will enjoy a guided tasting right among the old vines before concluding the day with a refined, traditional lunch at Casa Cebreros to reflect on a day that blends history, family, and innovation.
The Ultimate Why
This is more than a wine excursion; it is a chance to step foot into a region on the global rise and connect with the passionate people shaping it. Tasting an acclaimed Garnacha exactly where it is grown, surrounded by the silence of the mountains, expertly guided insights, and the company of fellow curious minds, is an unforgettable way to spend a Saturday outside the city.
What to Expect
• Expert Curation: Be guided through the region by a seasoned wine journalist with deep knowledge of modern Spanish winemaking.
• The Mastermind Tour: An intimate look into Soto Manrique with the visionaries putting Cebreros back on the global wine map.
• High-Altitude Tasting: A guided wine tasting perched high in the mountains at Alto de la Estrella, offering sweeping views of the Gredos landscape.
• A Local Feast: A leisurely, traditional lunch paired with regional wines at the highly regarded Casa Cebreros.
Venue
Soto Manrique & Casa Cebreros: We will spend the day moving through the steep, dramatic terrain of Cebreros, visiting the Soto Manrique winery, hiking up to their highest vineyard site, and finally settling in at Casa Cebreros—a local favorite that celebrates traditional cuisine with a refined touch. (Register to see exact meeting locations).
Timeline
• 09:30 - 11:00: Travel time (Scenic drive or bus from Madrid to the village of Cebreros).
• 11:00 - 12:30: Tour and storytelling at the Soto Manrique winery.
• 12:30 - 14:00: Ascent to Alto de la Estrella for a guided tasting among the vines.
• 14:30 - 16:30: Traditional lunch and wine pairing at Casa Cebreros.
• 16:30: Wrap up and head back to Madrid.
Menu & Inclusions
What Your Ticket Covers: This ticket includes your complete on-site experience: the guided visit and tour of the Soto Manrique winery, the high-altitude wine tasting among the vines, and a hearty, traditional lunch paired with regional wines at Casa Cebreros.
• Dietary Note: Please indicate any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your registration questions so the restaurant can accommodate you.
Dress Code
Vineyard Chic / Active Comfort: We will be walking through rocky, high-altitude vineyards. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are mandatory. Bring layers, as the crisp mountain air can shift temperatures quickly.
Host
Ilya Kirilin (@Garnacha_Man): A wine journalist and educator with nearly 15 years of global experience. Ilya has explored vineyards from the plains of New Zealand to the highest mountains of Argentina. After experiencing harvests in Piedmont and interviewing the world's top wine figures, he found his true passion: modern Spanish wine from unexpected regions, including the remote mountains of Madrid. He will be our expert guide for the day, alongside special appearances by Chuchi and Belén from Soto Manrique.
Important Details / House Notes
• Date: Saturday, May 23.
• Time: 11:00 to 16:30 (On-site in Cebreros).
• Ticket Inclusions: Your ticket covers the Soto Manrique winery visit, the guided wine tasting, and the full lunch with wine pairings. (Note: Transport is not included).
• Transport Options: * Drive Yourself: Cebreros is an easy, scenic 1 hour and 15-minute drive from Madrid via the M-501 (Carretera de los Pantanos).
• Public Bus: Don't have a car? You can take the 551 green intercity bus, which departs from the Príncipe Pío transport hub in Madrid and goes directly to Cebreros. Be sure to check the weekend timetables in advance, as departure times can be limited.
• Carpooling: We highly encourage members to arrange carpools in the community chat!
• Capacity: Strictly limited to ensure an intimate tasting experience.
• Cancellation Policy: Tickets are not refundable, but you are welcome to sell your ticket to another member on the community chat.
• Want to Bring a Friend? Refer them to join the club here.
• Want to Host an Event? Apply here.
• Need Help? Reach out on our WhatsApp Hotline.
• House Notes Reminder: We are all about IRL connection. Please try to be off your phone as much as possible to fully immerse yourself in the landscape and the conversations.
• OneThousandClub: A social club of curious minds.
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