Almudena Alberca

Almudena Alberca made history in 2018 by becoming the first Spanish woman to earn the esteemed title of Master of Wine (MW), a distinction held by fewer than 400 individuals worldwide. Born in 1978 in Madrid, Almudena Alberca’s journey into the world of wine was almost serendipitous. After completing her studies in agricultural engineering, she pursued a degree in oenology and a master’s in viticulture. Her first harvest took place at Vidal Estate in New Zealand, marking the beginning of a global adventure that would see her traverse wine regions across the globe.

A Career Steeped in Excellence

Alberca's professional path is a testament to her dedication and expertise. She began crafting boutique wines at Viñas de Cenit in Zamora, Spain, where she ascended from Assistant Winemaker to managing the entire winery. Her tenure at Dominio de Atauta in Ribera del Duero was marked by her pivotal role in shaping their wine styles and achieving international acclaim. Simultaneously, she served as the Spanish specialist for importer AvivaVino in New York, selecting and blending wines tailored for the U.S. market.

Between 2015 and 2024, Alberca was the Technical Director at Entrecanales Domecq Group, overseeing operations in Ribera del Duero, Rueda, Toro, Valdeorras, and Rías Baixas. Her leadership was instrumental in crafting wines that have garnered recognition from expert critics. Currently, she is the Spanish Brand Ambassador for Oeno, a company that offers industry-leading services for wine investors, hospitality clients, and those who simply enjoy fine wine. She also serves a judge for prestigious wine magazine Decanter.

Alberca is a passionate advocate for Spain's rich and diverse wine heritage. She emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional grape varieties and is actively involved in efforts to recover and promote indigenous Spanish grapes. She notes, "A revolution is underway: Spain is at an exciting moment in its history," highlighting the country's potential to lead in wine innovation.

Looking ahead, Alberca envisions a wine industry that balances tradition with innovation. She believes in the adaptability of Spain's native varieties, noting their ability to cope with climate challenges and produce fresh, complex wines. Her commitment to sustainability and quality continues to drive her work, ensuring that Spanish wines remain at the forefront of the global wine scene.

Almudena Alberca's journey from Madrid to the pinnacle of the wine world is a story of passion, perseverance, and a deep-seated love for the vine. As Spain's first female Master of Wine, she has not only broken barriers but has also paved the way for future generations of women in the wine industry.