Ole & Obrigado
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Olé & Obrigado is a leading U.S. importer of wines and spirits from the Iberian Peninsula, founded by lifelong friends and Spanish natives Patrick Mata and Alberto Orte. What began as a college project in 1999—importing wines from Alberto’s family estate in Montilla—has grown into one of the most thoughtful and comprehensive portfolios of Spanish and Portuguese producers in the country.
The collection is defined by authenticity, sustainability, and a deep commitment to place. Many wines in the portfolio are crafted by Alberto himself, a renowned enologist devoted to reviving nearly extinct grape varieties like Tintilla and Vijiriega Blanco in Andalucía’s Cádiz DO. A driving force in the “New Spain” movement, Alberto leads acclaimed projects such as Atlántida, Escalada do Sil, and Bodegas Poniente, all grounded in historic vineyards and traditional winemaking.
Patrick Mata brings a forward-thinking approach to business and storytelling. Named “Personality of the Year” by The Wine Advocate and recognized as a Tastemaker by both Wine Enthusiast and Food & Wine, Patrick remains a passionate advocate for winemakers preserving Iberia’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage.
Purpose Beyond the Bottle
In 2022, Olé & Obrigado became one of the first U.S. importers to be Certified Carbon Neutral, reinforcing its dedication to environmental stewardship across the supply chain. The company also uses its platform to give back: through campaigns like Liquid Geography Rosé and a series of benefit events, they have raised over $1 million for causes ranging from hunger relief and healthcare to education and environmental protection. Whether championing rare native varieties or elevating small growers from underrepresented regions, Olé & Obrigado brings a mission-driven ethos to every bottle.
Jeff Siegel, The Advocate Magazines
"There are a couple of importers whose wines are so trustworthy that I will buy them regardless of what’s in the bottle. Kermit Lynch, of course, for French wine, and Olé Imports for Spanish wine. Mata’s and Orte’s passion for Spanish wine is famous, their palates are exceptional. Which is why I trust Olé implicitly."
Wine Importer of the Year by Wine & Spirits Magazine in 2020
