Octagono | Vino Ancestral

octagono vinos – mexican natural wine producer

A natural wine producer from Vergel de la Sierra, Guanajuato, Octagono’s goal is to let the grape express itself with no human interpretation. They use four basic processes executed with zero technological intervention – pressed by foot, inviting wild fermentation with no industrial yeast or sugars added, macerated in buried clay vessels and hand pressed with rustic utensils.

The wines are fermented for up to 9 months in buried clay pots molded by local San Felipe and Dolores Hidalgo artisans. The process of sourcing these vessels brought about the revival of ancestral methods of making pottery – a tradition almost lost in time in a compromise for a quicker way of making pottery that satisfies mass demand. They have tried to recreate the classic Georgian kvevri form, and ended up with a hybrid that has a particular Mexican imprint.

Octagono is rebellious by nature, they make a point to conquer the fear and defy comfort zones. The work with grape growers to mirror quality by insisting to grow their grapes naturally, sometimes choosing unpopular varieties that Marcelo Castro enjoys working with – like Rosa del Peru.