Los Castaños 2022 from Bendito Destino is a thrilling red wine from Spain, crafted by Greek sommelier Terry Kandylis, who revived ancient vineyards of local varieties, showcasing both their potential and significance. It has already received 94 points from Wine Advocate — unsurprising, really, because firstly, it’s a phenomenal wine, and secondly, it’s already making waves on the wine lists of top restaurants and wine bars around the world! Only 2,590 bottles were produced, so try it while you still can.
Bendito Destino is one of Spain’s boldest wine projects, launched in 2020 by the award-winning Greek sommelier Terry Kandylis. In the old, abandoned vineyards surrounding the village of Canalejas de Peñafiel in Ribera del Duero, Terry saw the potential of the land and the opportunity to apply his expertise to revive vines over 80 and even 100 years old, creating his own unique wines. The project was named “Bendito Destino – Blessed Destiny” because that trip to the Canary Islands ended up changing his life, making him one of the most creative winemakers of Spain’s new generation. Under the guidance of Secundino, the oldest vine grower in Canalejas de Peñafiel, born in 1932, he worked with some of the region’s oldest vineyards and, through sustainable winemaking techniques, brought out the excellence of Spanish wine tradition.
“Castaños” is the nickname of the people of Canalejas de Peñafiel, and the wine was named in tribute to the older generations. Los Castaños 2022 is a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Bobal, Albillo, Malvasía and Pirulés, grown in the estate’s most important vineyards: La Cabaña and El Olmar. La Cabaña faces north and ripens later, while El Olmar ripens earlier. The fermentation included 35% whole bunches, enhancing the fruit’s aromatic intensity. Part of the blend was vinified as a dark colored rosé (clarete) to better manage tannins and ensure finesse, while the rest remained in contact with the skins for 15 days. The wines were then blended and aged in 500L François Frères oak barrels for 24 months, resulting in a wine with balanced tannins, vibrant freshness and exceptional elegance.
Los Castaños 2022 from Bendito Destino is a masterclass in the art of blending — a wine that only a few winemakers can achieve, and only a few lucky ones will get to taste.
