Clos de Lom: A Mediterranean Gem
Earlier this year, Old Chapel Cellars Co-Owner Louisa had the pleasure of visiting Clos de Lom, a family-owned estate tucked away in the Valle dels Alforins, roughly halfway between Alicante and Valencia. A visit to this hidden gem was the perfect way to cap off a girls’ weekend in late September, and what an experience it was!
Clos de Lom isn’t your typical tourist destination. The winery isn’t open to the public, and its remote location makes it a peaceful retreat from the busier wine regions of Spain. With some planning ahead, Louisa arranged a private visit and were warmly welcomed by Lucia Serratosa, the winery’s Director and granddaughter of the estate’s founders.
A Glimpse Into History and Tradition
The Serratosa family’s history with the estate stretches back to the 1950s, when Lucia’s grandparents developed the property. Today, it spans an impressive 1,000 hectares, encompassing vineyards, olive groves, and natural Mediterranean landscapes. Lucia’s passion for the land and its legacy was evident as she led the tour, sharing stories of her family’s dedication to sustainable viticulture and their respect for the unique microclimate of the region.
A highlight of the visit was an adventurous ride around the estate in one of the Serratosa family’s vintage military vehicles, part of a collection owned by Lucia’s father. The rugged journey offered stunning views of the vineyards planted at an altitude of 600 meters, where the Mediterranean breeze and strong winds provide natural protection against mildew and rot.
At the top of the vineyard, the group enjoyed a tasting amidst breathtaking scenery. Despite battling strong winds to hold on to glasses and bottles, the experience was nothing short of magical.
The Wines of Clos de Lom
Clos de Lom produces just four wines, each beautifully crafted to express the terroir and traditions of the region. Among these, the standout for Louisa was the Clos de Lom Malvasia, a white wine made from an old Mediterranean grape. With its bright notes of tangerine and citrus fruit, this wine is the perfect pairing for creamy seafood dishes like risotto or pasta.
The estate also produces a crisp and clean rosé, perfect for a summer’s day, and two rich, full-bodied reds. The first is a 100% Garnacha, an ideal match for grilled lamb or hearty meat stews. The second, named Isidra after Lucia’s grandfather, is a blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha, aged in oak to create a wine that is powerful yet balanced.
A Mediterranean Treasure
The combination of Clos de Lom’s unique location, meticulous winemaking, and dedication to sustainability results in wines that truly embody the spirit of the Mediterranean. The estate’s high-altitude vineyards, combined with the cooling effects of the Mediterranean breeze, create an environment perfect for crafting wines of elegance and character.
For those who appreciate wines with a story, Clos de Lom delivers an unforgettable taste of history, tradition, and craftsmanship. If you’re yet to try their Malvasia, we highly recommend it!
