Bodega Landsuá: A Passionate Journey into High-Altitude Winemaking

Bodega Landsuá is a family-owned winery nestled in the picturesque valleys of Samaipata, Bolivia. Founded from a union of two pioneering families—the Landívar and Suárez—the winery’s name, LANDSUÁ, symbolizes this rich heritage. What began as a single vine in 2011 has blossomed into a passionate endeavor dedicated to viticulture, enology, and crafting exceptional wines.

Origins and Evolution

Bodega Landsuá’s journey started with planting the first vines in January 2011. Recognizing the potential of their terroir, the family sought the expertise of Swiss enologist Josef Marie Chanton, owner of Bodega Chanton in Switzerland. Over three years, Chanton guided the family through the intricacies of viticulture and the implementation of best practices.

As the vineyard expanded, the winery was constructed, and the team welcomed Argentine enologists Luis Martinez and Sebastián Parra from Mendoza—the epicenter of American winemaking. Sebastián Parra oversees the winery’s operations and wine production, while Luis Martinez is the general advisor.

The inaugural harvest in early 2016 showcased grapes rich in color, tannins, flavors, and aromas. By November 2017, Landsuá launched its first commercial lines: Parras del Fuerte (varietal wines) and Castilla (blends). These wines quickly gained acclaim among wine enthusiasts for their quality and distinctive character.

Vineyards: The Heart of Landsuá

Located 110 kilometers from Santa Cruz and 8 kilometers from Samaipata, Bodega Landsuá is strategically positioned adjacent to the Eco-Archaeological Park of El Fuerte, at the gateway to the Andes. The vineyards span elevations between 1,650 and 1,850 meters above sea level, offering a microclimate ideal for viticulture.

Terroir and Climate

Samaipata’s unique terroir combines temperate climates with intense solar radiation, thanks to its high altitude and proximity to the Andes. The vineyards are planted on terraces carved into slopes with inclinations exceeding 45% in some areas. The soils are predominantly slate and rocky clay, rich in minerals that impart depth, color, and complexity to the wines.

The region benefits from bipolar wind currents: warm, humid winds from the northeast during spring and summer and calm, dry winds from the south in autumn and winter. These winds naturally ventilate the vineyards, reducing the risk of fungal diseases and promoting the health of the vines.

Varietals Cultivated

Bodega Landsuá cultivates over 30 hectares of vines, featuring both traditional and unique grape varieties:

• Red Varietals: Tannat, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo, Barbera, Cariñena (Carignan), Pinot Noir, Malbec
• White Varietals: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Albariño, Pedro Ximénez

The Winery: Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, Bodega Landsuá blends traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations. The winery features stainless steel tanks, concrete fermentation vats, and a dedicated aging cellar housing French and American oak barrels for reserve wines and sparkling wines.

Adjacent to the production facilities is the Las Terrazas Restaurant, offering gourmet cuisine that pairs exquisitely with Landsuá’s wines. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards and the breathtaking Purificación Valley.

Enotourism: An Immersive Wine Experience

Bodega Landsuá invites visitors to explore the world of Bolivian winemaking through its ecotourism offerings:

Classic Tour

A 45-minute guided experience includes:

• A stroll through the vineyards, learning about viticulture practices
• A visit to the production facilities and aging cellar
• A guided tasting of two wine varieties, with insights into tasting techniques and wine properties

Las Terrazas Restaurant

The restaurant at Bodega Landsuá offers a sophisticated dining experience with a gourmet à la carte menu. Guests can enjoy dishes ranging from succulent meats to handcrafted artisanal pasta, complemented by a selection of tapas, including curated cheese and charcuterie boards.

With terraces overlooking the Landsuá vineyards and the stunning Valle de la Purificación, diners are treated to breathtaking views that enhance the experience. The venue also features an event hall.

Award-Winning Wines: A Testament to Quality

Bodega Landsuá’s commitment to excellence is reflected in the numerous accolades its wines have received on the international stage:

• 2024
  • ABRA DEL TORO – Malbec: Gold Medal at “Mondial des Vins Extrêmes 2024” in Italy
  • PARRAS DEL FUERTE – Tannat: Gold Medal at “Brazil Wine Challenge” in Brazil
  • ABRA DEL TORO – Cabernet Sauvignon: Gold Medal at “Bacchus” in Spain
  • ABRA DEL TORO – Pinot Noir: Silver Medal at “Bacchus” in Spain
  • CASTILLA – Merlot Tempranillo: Silver Medal at “Bacchus” in Spain
• 2023
  • ABRA DEL TORO – Tannat 2017: Gold Medal at “Bacchus” in Spain
  • ABRA DEL TORO – Syrah 2017: Gold Medal at “Bacchus” in Spain
• 2021
  • PARRAS DEL FUERTE – Tannat 2019: Grand Gold Medal at “Mondial des Vins Extrêmes 2021” in Italy
  • PARRAS DEL FUERTE – Rosé Pinot Noir 2020: Silver Medal at “Vinalies Mondial du Rosé” in France
• 2020
  • PARRAS DEL FUERTE – Tannat: Silver Medal at “Catavinum World Wine & Spirits Competition” in Spain
  • Grand Gold Medal at the “International Wine and National Singanis Competition 2020” in Bolivia
• 2019
  • PARRAS DEL FUERTE – Tannat: Silver Medal at “Catavinum World Wine & Spirits Competition” in Spain

Signature Wine Lines

Parras del Fuerte

A homage to the El Fuerte ceremonial center, this line features 100% varietal wines:

• Syrah
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Tannat
• Malbec
• Pinot Noir Rosé
• Pedro Ximénez (White)

Castilla

Named after the site of Samaipata’s founding during the colonial era, this line offers exquisite blends:

• Tannat – Syrah
• Merlot – Tempranillo
• Barbera – Cariñena
• Chardonnay – Sauvignon Blanc (White)

Abra del Toro

Honoring the historic passage used for transporting goods between Moxos and Chiquitos, this line includes:

• Syrah
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Tannat
• Malbec
• Pinot Noir
• Pedro Ximénez (White)

Embracing the Terroir of Samaipata

Bodega Landsuá is more than a winery; it’s a testament to Bolivia’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. The unique combination of high-altitude vineyards, diverse soils, and favorable climatic conditions enables the production of wines with potent expressions and unique styles.

The winery’s dedication to respecting nature and embracing traditional methods results in wines that delight the palate and tell the story of their land. Each bottle encapsulates the essence of Samaipata—the noble character, serene landscapes, and harmonious balance between nature and craftsmanship.

A Vision for the Future

Bodega Landsuá continues solidifying its reputation as a leading wine producer in the Valleys of Santa Cruz. With a vision to expand and become a reference point for Bolivian wines, the winery remains committed to quality, innovation, and sharing the beauty of its homeland with the world.

Whether through their award-winning wines, immersive tours, or culinary experiences at Las Terrazas Restaurant, Bodega Landsuá invites everyone to partake in their passionate journey—a celebration of family heritage, exceptional winemaking, and the enchanting terroir of Samaipata.

Samaipata: A Jewel of Nature and Culture

Nestled in the foothills of the Bolivian Andes, Samaipata is a picturesque town that combines breathtaking natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage. Located 120 kilometers from Santa Cruz, It is a gateway to lush valleys, mystical cloud forests, and the renowned El Fuerte de Samaipata, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

El Fuerte, an ancient ceremonial site, reflects the region’s rich history, blending Inca, pre-Inca, and Spanish influences. Carved into a massive sandstone rock, it stands as a testament to the area’s spiritual and strategic importance, drawing archaeologists and travelers from around the globe.

Samaipata’s unique climate, with warm days and cool nights, makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers. Its fertile lands and high-altitude terroir, between 1,600 and 2,000 meters above sea level, have turned Samaipata into Bolivia’s emerging wine region. Vineyards like Bodega Landsuá thrive here, producing award-winning wines celebrated for their distinct flavors and character.

The town offers a charming blend of colonial architecture, boutique hotels, and artisanal shops. Visitors can explore local markets with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and regional delicacies. For nature lovers, the nearby Amboró National Park is a haven for biodiversity, offering opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring waterfalls.

Samaipata’s peaceful ambiance, vibrant landscapes, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination in Bolivia. Whether you’re savoring gourmet cuisine paired with local wines, marveling at historical wonders, or enjoying the serenity of its lush valleys, Samaipata invites you to experience the perfect harmony between nature, history, and modern luxury. It’s more than a destination—an unforgettable journey into Bolivia’s soul.