Raul Perez Lights a Beacon in Bierzo and Beyond

For most inquisitive drinkers interested in exploring the wines of the Iberian peninsula, the typical Spanish journey starts with the iconic reds of Rioja, moving along the Mediterranean coast to include the Catalonian regions of Penedes and Priorat, eventually bringing you to the crisp and mineral wines of Albarino from vineyards in the Atlantic northeast of Rias Baixas. One could be found more than content with these selections, however this is only a small scope of Spanish winemaking, as today every region within this culturally and ecologically diverse country now has its own unique senses of winemaking tradition and innovation.

In the heart of Spain, amidst the picturesque landscapes of Bierzo and beyond, a winemaking maverick has been quietly reshaping the nation’s viticultural landscape. Raul Perez, often described as an “enfant terrible” (a troublemaker of sorts) of Spanish wine, is a name synonymous with viticultural innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

With deep-rooted respect for his terroir, Raul Perez has embarked on a journey to rediscover and celebrate Spain’s indigenous grape varieties. His vineyards, scattered across Bierzo, Galicia, Castilla y León, and more, are a testament to his commitment to preserving and rejuvenating long-forgotten traditions. From the captivating Mencía in Bierzo to the elusive Albarin (not to be confused with Albarino now) in Castilla, Perez’s wines are a compelling narrative of Spain’s vinous diversity.

Perez’s approach to winemaking is refreshingly minimalistic despite his modernity, allowing the grapes to speak for themselves. Fermentations with native yeasts, aging in old oak barrels, and minimal intervention characterize his craft. This dedication to preserving the purity of each grape’s expression has earned his wines accolades from the most discerning critics, consistently receiving high scores and international recognition.

But it’s not just the quality of his unique wines that sets Raul Perez apart, whether it’s the soulful Ultreia or the scintillating Rara Avis, his commitment to sustainable farming practices is ever-present. Perez champions organic and biodynamic viticulture, emphasizing the harmony between the vines and the land. He believes that healthy soils and plants are the foundation of great wines as his sustainable approach not only preserves the environment but also ensures the longevity of both classic and modern winemaking traditions.

In a rapidly changing wine world, Raul Perez remains a guiding light, reminding us of Spain’s rich winemaking heritage and the boundless potential of its terroir. We are delighted to be able to share such an encompassing spectrum of Raul’s wines here in Thailand, and as always please let us know if you have any further inquiries into Mr. Perez’s wines or any of the other wines we have in our portfolio.