Bodegas Tarón Named ‘Cooperative of the Year’ Once Again by Tim Atkin MW

Bodegas Tarón is once again among the greats of the wine world. The prestigious British Master of Wine Tim Atkin has honored the Rioja cooperative as  ‘Cooperative of the Year’   in its Rioja 2026 Special Report, the influential annual report dedicated to the Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin.

This recognition has special significance for the winery, as  it is not the first time it has received this award: Atkin already selected it in 2023, thus consolidating the project’s trajectory and consistency.

Atkin’s report is the result of exhaustive fieldwork: his team traveled throughout the DOCa Rioja for 22 days, visiting an average of seven wineries per day to gain an in-depth understanding of every corner of the region and assess the work of winegrowers and winemakers.

“We are immensely happy that such a respected international professional as Tim Atkin has once again taken notice of our winery,” says Gonzalo Salazar de Gurendes, manager of Bodegas Tarón. “It is a source of pride and great news for the more than 200 members and their families from Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón, Tirgo, Sajazarra, and Villaseca who are part of the cooperative.”

From Tarón, they interpret this distinction as a boost to continue growing and reinforcing its commitment to quality from the source. Its goal remains clear: to raise awareness of the  Tarón Territory through wines that express its authenticity and character.

“This choice encourages us to continue believing in our project,” adds Salazar de Gurendes. “Work in the field is key to ensuring that our efforts are reflected in the wines. We will continue to focus on producing high-end wines and will not take a step back.”

The cooperative also wished to thank Tim Atkin and his team for their work: “Behind this report lies a tremendous effort to gain an in-depth understanding of Rioja. Thank you for once again highlighting the value of our work and that of so many other wineries in the appellation.”