I recently met, over a tasting luncheon, Vicky Gonzalez Gordon, COO of Gonzalez Byass. We discussed sustainability as one of the company’s highest priorities and how five generations of her family have taken care of the planet and continue to build out for the future. It’s been almost two years since I have tasted their portfolio, and I keep getting engaged with their approach to respecting the planet as much as possible, family values, and price over quality delivered
González Byass, Fine wines and spirits from around the world.
Gonzalez Byass is a family of producers and importers that expands through Austria, Chile, Spain, and, last but not least, my dearest Mexico. The first wine I tried from their portfolio was Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc, which I have tried a couple of vintages already and continue to deliver yearly. Then I tried their historical line of Sherry and their iconic Tio Pepe, moved to Beronia, and last, their Primus, the luxury line of their Chilean Wines.
Hence, during the wine tasting, I was already familiar with the wines, but since it was paired with vegan food, it was a new and exquisite experience. Planta Queen was the restaurant in the vibrant neighborhood of NoMad that provided Asian fusion food and ambiance to get the tasting going.
Sustainability the heart of their mission
Among sustainability concepts and realities, we discussed how Bodegas Beronia is a winery that uses natural energy and tries to minimize the environmental impact. Moreover, they try to implement biodynamic and organic vineyards; some of their wineries are already certified sustainable. Some of their wines are vegan and can be included in these menus.
On top of the fantastic pairings, I enjoyed the vibrant personality of Vicky Gonzalez Gordon. I felt like she was a long-time friend that I had met already. The conversation flowed around wine, sustainability and my trips to Spain. The high note was sharing that special moment back in Madrid when I first saw that iconic sign of Tio Pepe located in Puerta del Sol. Little did I know I would share that memory with one of the persons involved in keeping Tio Pepe true to their origins and respect for the environment.
