Starting a project in the world of wine is no easy feat, especially without the backing of a family tradition. This was the challenge Coqué Ruz faced when founding Celler Cataruz, a winery that has become a benchmark in the Valencian Community. Her journey stands out for her perseverance in gaining visibility in such a saturated industry, dominated by prominent names and long-established families.

Coqué embarked on this project in 2007 with a clear vision: to craft wines that reflect the authenticity of her land and the unique character of its grape varieties. However, the road was far from easy. After parting ways with her previous project to forge her own path, she encountered an industry steeped in tradition and historically dominated by men, presenting barriers from the very beginning. Yet, her commitment to professional ethics and a focus on sustainable, organic, and high-quality practices set her project apart from the start.

Achievements That Speak for Themselves: Extremo and Maneras de Vivir

In recent years, ‘Extremo’ and ‘Maneras de Vivir’ have become iconic wines of the winery. Maneras de Vivir, an elegant blend of Bobal and Shiraz with complex nuances, has won over both critics and consumers. Meanwhile, Extremo, a more versatile and modern wine crafted from a unique blend of Verdejo and Viognier, embodies Coqué’s rebellious and creative spirit, conveying her life philosophy in every bottle.

As she explains, her wines tell a part of her story—her maturity (‘Melic’), her children (‘Malcriat’), or even the passion she feels for her work (‘Il.lusiona’t’). Each wine is crafted with the purpose of telling stories, which is why people connect with them so effortlessly.

The development of this project has not been without its challenges. From a lack of initial resources to the difficulties of competing in a saturated market, nothing has been able to hinder a venture that, rooted in honesty and respect for the land, offers organic wines of the highest quality while building a brand with a distinct identity.

Celler Cataruz wines have earned numerous awards, including a recent gold medal for Extremo and a silver medal for Melic in their respective categories as organic wines of the Valencian Community, granted by Proava. Furthermore, these wines have travelled far, being exported to China, the United Kingdom, France, and Canada.

Today, Celler Cataruz is a shining example of how passion and determination can overcome barriers, break moulds, and create something extraordinary from the ground up. Coqué Ruz’s story not only inspires women entrepreneurs but also anyone striving to leave an authentic mark in the world of wine.

Report by Carlos Catalán Ruz

Article copyright ‘24/7 Valencia’

 More info: https://cellercataruz.com/en/