Tradition in Transition: Jackson Brooke in Rioja Alavesa

Spain is a land steeped in tradition—rich in culture, history, and of course, wine. Few regions embody this legacy more than Rioja, with its age-old dedication to blending, oak maturation, and patience. But even in Rioja, time doesn’t stand still. The region now finds itself at a crossroads, reflecting on long-held practices and facing the challenge of adapting to a rapidly evolving global wine world.

At the heart of this transformation is an unexpected figure—Australian winemaker Jackson Brooke. Before fate led him to Rioja, Jackson was already crafting fine wines in Australia. Today, he’s the head winemaker at Cosme Palacio, one of Rioja’s oldest and most respected labels. With a global perspective and a deep respect for place, Jackson is quietly spearheading change in the Rioja Alavesa, embracing regenerative agriculture and nudging the region toward a more thoughtful future.

In this episode, Jackson shares his insights on where Rioja has been, where it might be headed, and why now is the time to evolve. We cover everything from vineyard philosophy to cultural shifts—and just when I thought the conversation was winding down, a surprise guest from Jackson’s past popped in for a cameo.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable and thought-provoking chat. A big thank you to Jackson for joining me.