Founded in 2001 and relaunched since 2012 under the impetus of the Del Río family (Hacienda Monasterio), Bodega Montecastro is located in the western part of the Ribera del Duero, in the village of Castrillo de Duero (province of Valladolid), at over 900 meters above sea level. This exceptional location gives its wines a style that is fresher, more precise, and more vertical than the average of the appellation.

Vineyard and Terroirs

The estate cultivates approximately 27 hectares of vines, mainly planted with Tinta Fina (the local Tempranillo), complemented by small plots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Garnacha. The soils are predominantly limestone, clay-limestone, and gravelly, on slopes facing north and northwest, with marked thermal amplitudes that preserve the acidity and finesse of the grapes.

Viticulture and Winemaking

The estate practices sustainable viticulture, without irrigation, with attention to biodiversity and respect for the vegetative cycle. Harvesting is manual, with rigorous sorting. Fermentations are slow, in stainless steel and concrete tanks, then the wines are aged for 12 to 18 months in French barrels (30 to 50% new) and in large casks, depending on the cuvées.

Iconic Cuvées

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  Montecastro: the estate's flagship wine, pure Tempranillo, tense, precise, highly drinkable.

  
  
  
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  Montecastro Selección: more depth, old vines, extended aging, great aging potential.

  
  
  
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  Montecastro Garnacha: rare cuvée, very floral, juicy, and airy.

  
  
  

Style and Recognition

Montecastro today stands out as a modern and elegant alternative in Ribera, with wines where freshness, fruit purity, and wood integration take precedence over raw power. Their balance makes them sought-after bottles by enthusiasts looking for more digestible and authentic Ribera, without denying depth.