Terry Kandylis, who previously served as the head sommelier at 67 Pall Mall and worked with Caprice Holdings, was inspired to explore new wine ventures in Australia. However, the pandemic disrupted his plans. On a stopover in Ribera del Duero en route to the Canary Islands, he was captivated by the region’s ancient vineyards.
Despite the declining value of old-vine fruit leading to some vineyards being abandoned, Terry recognized their potential and started acquiring heritage plots in Canalejas de Peñafiel, located at an impressive altitude of 925 meters – the highest point in Valladolid. His initially modest 2.1 hectares have now expanded to about 8 hectares, featuring vineyards that are around 80 to 100 years old.
Most of these vineyards are field blends, with the exception of two dedicated plots of Garnacha and Albillo. The red varietals include Tempranillo, Garnacha, Bobal, and Monastrell, with Tempranillo being the dominant grape. The white varieties are Albillo Mayor, Jaen Blanco, and Malvasía Riojana, all harvested together.
Terry employs low-intervention winemaking techniques, focusing on light extraction and minimizing oak aging, with wild fermentation enhancing the unique characteristics of the wines. While he continues to work as a group sommelier at Noble Rot, his winemaking endeavors flourish.
Notable Wines
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Bendito Albillo Mayor 2022: This wine features foot-trodden grapes and is basket-pressed, fermented in new François Frères barrels. It offers a vibrant blend of citrus, pear, and peach with a spicy finish, aged elegantly. Rated 93/100.
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Bendito Destino Clarette 2022: A unique blend of red and white varieties, this pale pink wine has a lovely texture of pear and cherry fruits, balanced with refined spices. Rated 93/100.
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Bendito Destino Field Blend 2022: Comprising 20-30% whole bunch fruit, this wine has a bright and supple character with red cherries and strawberries, finishing with mineral purity. Rated 94/100.
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Bendito Destino Fuentecebello 2021: A representation of single-vineyard excellence from sandy limestone soils, showcasing 40% whole bunch. This wine is elegant with fresh cherry notes and a sour cherry finish. Rated 95/100.
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Bendito Destino La Cabaña 2021: Originating from a rocky, north-facing vineyard, this wine exhibits floral aromas and refined flavors of cherries and plums, coupled with a mineral quality. Rated 96/100.
Terry’s innovative approach and commitment to these historic vineyards signal a promising future for Ribera del Duero’s legacy wines.
For more information, visit Bendito Destino.