Escobar Cerro (Cerro Escobar)

Overview

**Bodega Escobar: A Journey Through Paraguayan Winemaking**
Nestled in the stunning Paraguarí Department of Paraguay, **Bodega Escobar**, also known as **Escobar Cerro**, is a charming winery with a rich history that dates back to the early 1940s. Founded by Don Emilio Escobar and his wife, Maria, this vineyard was born from their dream of cultivating the rolling hills of Paraguarí. Their vision was to create a space that not only showcased the area's breathtaking natural beauty but also produced exceptional wines.
The winery began on a modest plot of fertile land, perfectly suited for grape cultivation. Don Emilio and Maria, driven by their shared passion for winemaking, planted the first vines by hand, selecting traditional Paraguayan varietals known for thriving in the local climate, such as **Tannat**, **Negra Criolla**, and various indigenous grapes.
From its inception, **Bodega Escobar** distinguished itself through its commitment to **natural farming techniques**. Don Emilio, a staunch advocate for sustainable agriculture, instilled these values in his children and grandchildren. The family embraced organic farming practices, avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers to ensure that their wines genuinely reflected the essence of the land.
As the years passed, the vineyard flourished, producing grapes bursting with flavor and character. The Escobar family crafted their first batch of wine in a quaint stone building that Don Emilio constructed using local materials. Employing time-honored winemaking techniques, they fermented grape juice in large oak barrels, allowing the wine to age gracefully. This blend of traditional craftsmanship and a deep respect for nature garnered the winery local acclaim.
With a growing reputation, the Escobar family expanded their operations over the decades. In the 1980s, Don Emilio's son, **Carlos**, took over and introduced modern viticulture practices while honoring the traditions of the past. He modernized the facilities by incorporating stainless steel fermentation tanks and temperature-controlled cellars, enhancing production efficiency while maintaining the quality of their wines.
Carlos also prioritized the **visitor experience**, constructing a welcoming tasting room that offered breathtaking views of the vineyards and surrounding cerros (hills). This space encouraged wine enthusiasts and tourists alike to learn about the winemaking process while soaking in the serene landscape. Guided vineyard tours became a popular attraction, allowing guests to witness firsthand the meticulous care that goes into every bottle of Bodega Escobar wine.
In the early 2000s, **Bodega Escobar** continued to innovate under the leadership of Carlos's son, **Javier**, an oenologist by training. Javier introduced new grape varietals and experimented with blends, creating unique wines that appealed to modern palates. He also implemented cutting-edge technology in vineyard management and wine production, ensuring consistent quality and sustainability.
Today, **Bodega Escobar** stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Escobar family. The vineyard spans over a hundred hectares, producing a diverse range of wines that include robust reds, crisp whites, and delightful rosés. Each bottle tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a profound connection to the land of Paraguarí.
The winery also hosts **annual harvest festivals**, where visitors can participate in grape picking, stomp grapes, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Paraguayan winemaking. These vibrant events reflect the community spirit that has always been central to Bodega Escobar.
With its unwavering commitment to sustainability and excellence, **Bodega Escobar** remains a beloved landmark in the Paraguarí Department. It is more than just a place where wine is made; it is where history, nature, and human ingenuity intertwine to create something truly special. The legacy of Don Emilio and his dream, carried forward by his descendants, lives on in every bottle that leaves the winery, offering a taste of Paraguay's rich viticultural tradition to the world.