Wildfires' Impact on Sierra de Gredos Hard to Assess; Extensive Damage to Reventón Reported

The situation in Spain is still evolving, Natasha Mallory of Gregory + Vine told us from Spain. She noted there are still active fires in the provinces of Avila and Madrid. The high heat, low humidity and strong winds have created a firestorm.

The Sierra de Gredos area in general is difficult to access since it is mountainous, but even more so now. Most growers in the area of Cebreros and El Tiemblo, the most affected so far, have not been able to enter and assess damages. At a minimum, there will be issues with smoke taint.

Gredos is known for its very old plots of Garnacha and Albillo Real. There are a few producers who have been able to enter to confirm that they have lost some plots of old vines. There is a report that Bodega El Reventón verified extensive damage to the San Gregorio plot, which has 100-year-old vines, Mallory said. 

What may be a saving grace, is the extensive work some growers have done to maintain their plots free of dried vegetation that creates a natural fire break. What is certain is the devastation of the surrounding flora and fauna. The Gredos Range and the neighboring Tiétar Valley are very rich ecosystems, with extensive forests and great biodiversity.

Fires are burning out of control in other areas of Spain. We still have the month of August to go, and another heat wave arrives in Spain and France starting tomorrow. They're predicting 111º temps in parts of Andalucia for the rest of the week.