Abadia Retuerta Winery Guide

EXPLORE ALL OUR RECOMMENDED SPANISH WINERIES

Last updated: November 22, 2023

Winery Overview

The winery is located in a monastery founded in 1145 by the aristocratic Doña Mayor. She was the very wealthy daughter of Count Ansúrez, Lord of Valladolid (the city at the heart of the Ribera del Duero wine region). The Abbey was one of many monastery fortresses built during the Christian “Reconquest” in the region of Castile (which means “castle”). The grounds around the Abadia Retuerta property were donated to the church by the aristocratic owners. However, they left “terras et vineas” (land and vines) to the French-based order of St. Norbert, which began this estate’s history of producing wine.

Fast forward to the 21st century, Abadia Retuerta entered a new chapter under the ownership of the esteemed Swiss pharmaceutical group. First, Novartis purchased 210 hectares of vineyards in 1988. Then in 1991, under the direction of Pascal Debeck, a French winemaker, they started to replant the vines, and in 1996, they produced their first wine.

Also, they painstakingly restored the monastery to its former glory, transforming it into a luxurious hotel that offers an unparalleled blend of refined accommodations and immersive cultural experiences. Amidst this captivating backdrop, Abadia Retuerta continues to produce wines that captivate the senses and push the boundaries of winemaking artistry.

Its rise to prominence reached its pinnacle in 2005 when it earned the esteemed title of “Best Red Wine of the World” at the prestigious International Wine Challenge in London. This accolade catapulted Abadia Retuerta into the global spotlight and sparked an unprecedented demand for its exceptional wines, resulting in frequent sell-outs.

Pascal remains involved with Abadía Retuerta as a consultant; however, the day-to-day operations are managed by Ángel Anocíbar, who has successfully restored the estate’s former winemaking excellence.

Even though Tempranillo reigns supreme, the slopes below the Douro River are also home to carefully cultivated French varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Petit Verdot. The winery employs small crane-operated tanks and treats each pago (parcel) separately, guided by gravity during vinification. French oak is used exclusively for aging. The winery also employs a unique system of fans and gas heaters in the vineyards to ensure the spring frost doesn’t damage the vines. When the temperature drops, the system automatically starts. The fans circulate warm air generated by the gas heaters over the vines, reducing the risk of damage from the cold.

Today their meticulous attention to detail, unwavering commitment to quality, and boundless ambition, Abadia Retuerta crafts an exquisite range of wines that have garnered resounding acclaim in the wine press. Revered as “modern classics,” their wines seamlessly blend tradition and innovation, resulting in captivating expressions embodying Ribera del Duero’s unique terroir. Each bottle from Abadia Retuerta tells a story of craftsmanship, passion, and a profound respect for the rich heritage that permeates this extraordinary winery.