The Perez family established Castro Ventosa in 1752, and have held onto the estate ever since. Currently, they possess 75 hectares of Mencía vineyards in Bierzo, making them the largest Mencía grape growers in the Bierzo D.O. In total, the Bierzo appellation encompasses 5,000 hectares of land, with half dedicated to white grape varieties and the other half to Mencía. Interestingly, there are 5,000 different landowners within the appellation.
Today, Raúl Pérez, who manages the winery, is a prominent figure in the world of Bierzo wines in Spain. Castro Ventosa produces three distinct Mencía wines: Valtuille, El Castro de Valtuille, and El Castro de Valtuille ‘Joven Mencia.’ Mencía grapes are native to Bierzo, and some experts speculate that they might be an ancient relative of Cabernet Franc.
Situated in the northwest of the Castilla y León Province, just above Portugal, the Bierzo D.O. has a rich history. Castilla was one of the original Spanish regions that united against the Moors during the Middle Ages, establishing itself as a stronghold for Catholics in the northwest. The region boasts a significant historical legacy, with numerous remnants bearing witness to its storied past.
The winery is located in the village of Valtuille de Abajo, nestled at the base of the Castro hill, the site of an ancient Roman fort that overlooks the village. Some of Castro Ventosa’s vineyards are planted on this very hill, surrounding the ruins. The name ‘Castro Ventosa’ translates to ‘The Windy Castle.’ The Valtuille wine is crafted from five parcels in Valtuille de Abajo, featuring pre-phylloxera vineyards with the region’s unique sandy soil.
Bierzo, nestled within a small valley encircled by mountains, benefits from an exceptional geographical position. This location gives the area a distinct microclimate. Its low altitude protects against winter frosts, while the warm summer months offer ideal conditions for cultivating exceptional grapevines. The soil here is a blend of quartzite and slate, contributing to the region’s terroir.
BodegaCastro Ventosa wines are imported into Canada by Domaine Selections. Contact us today!