Raúl Pérez

The Story of Raúl Pérez: From Family Roots to Winemaking Icon

Raúl Pérez was born in 1972 into a winemaking family in Valtuille de Abajo, Bierzo. He gained early experience working at his family estate, Bodegas Castro Ventosa, founded in 1752, where he led his first harvest at just 22 years old. Pérez’s early exposure to traditional viticulture and his natural curiosity inspired him to seek a deeper understanding of Mencía (the star of Bierzo!) and its expression in different microclimates. In 2003, Pérez took the bold step of establishing his winery, Bodegas y Viñedos Raúl Pérez, to pursue a more intuitive and less interventionist approach. Although he continues to consult for Castro Ventosa, his personal projects now span across various regions and styles, reflecting a philosophy that values individuality over consistency.

Viticulture Practice: Respecting the Land

Raúl Pérez practices low-intervention, sustainable viticulture with a deep respect for biodiversity and traditional methods. His vineyards, many containing vines that are 50 to 100 years old, are often found on steep slopes with varied exposures and soil types. He avoids herbicides and chemical fertilizers, opting instead for natural, organic farming methods. Pérez believes that true wine quality starts in the vineyard, and he is known for spending significant time among the vines, observing their needs. He also pays close attention to altitude, soil composition, and vine orientation.

Vinification Practice: Minimalist but Masterful

In the cellar, Raúl Pérez follows a “hands-off” philosophy. He employs native yeast fermentations, minimal sulfur is used, and often no fining or filtration. His wines are typically aged in old barrels or foudres to avoid masking the grape’s character with new oak. Pérez prefers long macerations, sometimes up to 60 days for reds. The extended maceration period adds depth and structure without sacrificing elegance. He often bottles wines with minimal adjustments, allowing oxidation and evolution to naturally shape the wine over time. This minimal intervention results in complex wines that feel vibrant and alive, showcasing a pure expression of grape and place.

Raúl Pérez’s wine portfolio is vast, including over 200 cuvées listed in The Wine Advocate. Among the most celebrated is the Ultreia series—a nod to the Camino de Santiago pilgrim greeting meaning “go further.” Wines like Ultreia Saint Jacques offer extraordinary quality for their price, featuring depth, energy, and a clear sense of place. His La Vizcaína range focuses on single-vineyard expressions from Bierzo, while his work with Godello has elevated this white grape to international acclaim. Pérez also collaborates with other iconic winemakers such as Dirk Niepoort in Portugal, Rodrigo Méndez in Rías Baixas, and Eben Sadie in South Africa, producing wines that merge terroirs and winemaking philosophies across borders.