Raul Perez Ultreia de Rapolao (2021)

Raúl Pérez Pereira is widely regarded as one of the most visionary winemakers in Spain. His roots run through Castro Ventosa, his family’s 250‑year‑old winery, where he made his first vintage at age 22. His family has tended vines in Valtuille for more than 300 years.

After working at Castro Ventosa and briefly in Penedès, he struck out on his own in 2005 to create Bodegas y Viñedos Raúl Pérez. His wines helped define “The New Spain,” and he has been named Best Winemaker in the World  Bettane+Desseauve, 2015). He aims to “exert the minimum influence on the grape,” letting soil, climate, and vintage speak without additives or heavy oak. His work across Bierzo, Ribeira Sacra, Rías Baixas, Portugal, and even the Canary Islands reflects a single obsession: understanding each parcel’s limits and potential.

A vivid, jewel‑bright ruby pours from the glass, leading with expressive aromas of black and red berries wrapped in rose petals, cassis, and a touch of exotic spice. The palate is plush and generous, layering blackberry and pomegranate over a juicy, mouth‑watering core. Bright acidity and silky, fine‑grained tannins stretch the finish long and graceful. It feels like a love letter from Bierzo—pure, lifted, and full of regional charm—and it’s even more refreshing with a light chill.