Can Rafols dels Caus
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Country of Origin: Spain
Location: Massís del Garraf
People: Julia Esteva and family, Owners | Jordi Esteve, Director
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Can Ràfols dels Caus was founded in the Massis del Garraf in 1979 by Carlos Esteva. He was initially interested in restoring the property's neglected centuries-old masia (Catalan farmhouse) but quickly became entranced by the many plots of old vines scattered all around the property and he believed that he could make great wines from the estate of Can Ràfols dels Caus.
In a region dominated by Cava, Carlos Esteva is now regarded as one of the most influential figures in the development of fine still wines in the Penedes, even helping to establish the Penedes DO. He's been described as pioneering, inventive, and above all, committed to showing the potential of the Penedes, and especially the Massis del Garraf, for making great wines.
Can Ràfols dels Caus sits at about 300 meters above sea level in the Massis del Garraf, the forested subregion of the Penedes that sits adjacent to the Parc del Garraf nature preserve and along the Sierra de l'Ordal mountain range. The plots are small, ranging in size from 0.15ha to 2ha and scattered throughout the dense forests, often on steep slopes. The soils in the Massis del Garaf are known for being very high in calcium carbonate and lower in clay than the majority of the Penedes. They are rich in the marine fossils that exist as the result of the area being covered by the sea in prehistoric times.
Can Ràfols dels Caus has been committed to quality and sustainability since their founding. The winery and vineyards have been certified organic since the 2013 vintage and only estate grapes are used in the wines. Carlos Esteva put his effort into highlighting the value of native varieties, Xarel·lo, Macabeu, and Sumoll, with some plots planted in 1934. These coexist with other varieties that have adapted perfectly to the Garraf Massif, such as Chenin Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Incrocio Manzoni, among others.
Sadly, after persevering through years of health struggles, Carlos passed away in 2023. Today the estate is run by Director Jordi Esteve, a trusted family friend who worked alongside Carlos for several years before his death, along with Julia Esteva, Carlos' daughter. Their small team, including enologist David Mañas, makes decisions rooted in Carlos' vision.