We look forward to the "Montecastrillo" release each year-- it's a favorably-priced stunner of a bottling; one of those we tout as 'owning the QPR' (quality-to-price ratio). Not only is this a great value but the winery is the first-ever Demeter-certified biodynamic winery in the appellation, as of 2015. Look for a delicious array of dark and bright red fruits and berries, minerality and touches of florals and herbal notes. Appropriate tannins and body keep the wine light on its feet and allow it to be a perfect partner to many summer grillables: think burgers, steaks, lamb, pork sausage, venison and more!
Founded in 1903, the 200-hectare Finca Torremilanos in Aranda de Duero is the second-oldest wine-producing estate in what is now Ribera del Duero DO (after Vega Sicilia). The current regime dates to the late 1970s and was instrumental in the establishment of the DO in 1982. Pilar Pérez Albéniz, one of the most respected women in the region and winner of the inaugural ‘Ribera Heritage’ Award in 2019, is still at the helm, with two of her sons, Ricardo and Vicente, handling winemaking and sales respectively. A family-run gem that marches to the beat of its own drummer in producing both traditionally-styled and experimental wines.
WINE ADVOCATE 91+ POINTS - "The 2023 Montecastrillo was produced with 90% Tempranillo and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon from younger vines, fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel and matured in 225-liter barrels for six months. It has contained ripeness, 14.1% alcohol and a pH of 3.71. It's fresh, fruit-driven, fine-boned and juicy, with fine tannins; it's fresher and lighter than in the previous vintage. 104,072 bottles and 2,269 magnums produced, a notable quantity. It was bottled between November 2024 and January 2025. It is affordable, approachable and very good value for money."
Biodynamically Farmed, Demeter Certified
Founded in 1903, the 200-hectare Finca Torremilanos in Aranda de Duero is the second-oldest wine-producing estate in what is now Ribera del Duero DO (after Vega Sicilia). The current regime dates to the late 1970s and was instrumental in the establishment of the DO in 1982. Pilar Pérez Albéniz, one of the most respected women in the region and winner of the inaugural ‘Ribera Heritage’ Award in 2019, is still at the helm, with two of her sons, Ricardo and Vicente, handling winemaking and sales respectively. A family-run gem that marches to the beat of its own drummer in producing both traditionally-styled and experimental wines.
WINE ADVOCATE 91+ POINTS - "The 2023 Montecastrillo was produced with 90% Tempranillo and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon from younger vines, fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel and matured in 225-liter barrels for six months. It has contained ripeness, 14.1% alcohol and a pH of 3.71. It's fresh, fruit-driven, fine-boned and juicy, with fine tannins; it's fresher and lighter than in the previous vintage. 104,072 bottles and 2,269 magnums produced, a notable quantity. It was bottled between November 2024 and January 2025. It is affordable, approachable and very good value for money."
Biodynamically Farmed, Demeter Certified