The height above sea level and the latitude of the Rioja Alavesa are both ideal for the development of particularly excellent quality vineyards. The microclimate of this particular district is complemented by two further elements – the winds, and the orientation of the vineyards, which are sheltered from the cold winds to the north by the Sierra de Cantabria mountain range, which acts as a natural barrier.

The vineyards of the Rioja Alavesa from the Sierra de Cantabria Mountains down to the River Ebro are planted on south facing slopes.

A vineyard like this, that faces the sun, known locally as a "carasol" , is the best type for grape growing, as it brings forward the ripening of the grapes.