Casa los Frailes 'Dolomitas' Monastrell 2022 (100ml)

Casa Los Frailes is a historic estate in Valencia, owned by the Velázquez family since the eighteenth century and now run by siblings María José and Miguel Velázquez. The vineyards sit inland at altitude, where cooler nights help preserve freshness in the Mediterranean climate. Farming is organic and biodynamic, with a strong focus on native varieties such as Monastrell and Mandó. Winemaking is thoughtful and restrained, often using concrete and large oak to keep the wines clear and expressive. Casa Los Frailes combines deep family history with a progressive mindset, producing wines that feel rooted in place but confidently forward-looking.

Spain’s wine history stretches back to Phoenician traders, Roman viticulture and a long monastic tradition. The modern era accelerated after phylloxera pushed French winemakers south, shaping regions like Rioja. Today Spain balances heritage with innovation, reviving old vineyards and native varieties while refining quality across its diverse landscapes.

Spain is one of the most dynamic wine countries in Europe, home to a huge diversity of regions and styles shaped by its varied climate and long winemaking history. You will find fresh Atlantic influenced whites from Rias Baixas and fuller reds from Ribera del Duero and Rioja, where Tempranillo is the headline grape. The appellation system is built around quality tiers such as DO and DOCa which help guide you through everything from crisp Verdejo in Rueda to deep Garnacha from Priorat. Across the country the focus is on expressing place, with modern producers leaning into freshness, balance and regional character.

Valencia sits on Spain’s eastern coast and offers a broad mix of climates and wine styles shaped by both Mediterranean heat and higher inland elevations. The region works with a wide range of native and international grapes, including Monastrell, Bobal and Garnacha for reds, alongside whites such as Merseguera and Macabeo. Coastal areas focus on freshness while inland zones bring structure and ageing potential, particularly from old vine plantings. Valencia has seen a renewed focus on quality-driven viticulture and clearer regional definition in recent years. The result is a region moving beyond volume toward more precise, characterful wines with growing confidence.