Gregory Pérez

For Pérez, winemaking is a family tradition. As he admits himself, in his home region of Bordeaux every home has its own little winery. At age 14 he was out in the vineyard helping his father’s friend. Guy Mallet, winemaker at Château Lalande, was his true master and let him in on the secrets of clipping and winemaking. On completing his studies at the Blanquefort School of Oenology and Viticulture, he worked at such prestigious wineries as Château Grand Tuy Lacaste or Cos d’Estournel. However, it was at Bodegas y Viñedos Luna Beberide, in the Spanish region of El Bierzo, where he really made a name for himself. Now he manages his own personal project, called Bodegas Mengoba.

Absolute love for the ‘terroir’

What Pérez admits to enjoying the most about his job is watching the grapes grow on the vine, in the vineyards on the roughest face of the mountain, on the old rootstock that can barely survive on the slate earth, anticipating what the wine will be like. He relishes both in his work out on the vineyard and in the winery.

Pérez emphasizes respect for the vineyard and sustainability, aiming to produce wines that reflect the unique personality of each terroir. Bodegas Mengoba employs traditional vinification processes, including the use of indigenous yeasts, to ensure their wines authentically represent their origin.

Regarding his personal contribution, he stresses the changes he has applied in different wineries over the past years. Upholding the essentials, the spirit and the character of his wines, he has made the winery a more dynamic place, renovating working procedure from start to finish.

In 2024, Pérez continues to garner praise for his meticulous craftsmanship. His wines are now featured in Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe and have earned high ratings from prestigious wine publications like ‘Decanter’ and ‘The Wine Advocate.’ Despite this acclaim, he remains focused on his craft, often seen tending to the vines himself or experimenting with small-batch productions to push the boundaries of his art.

Pérez’s passion for mentorship has also grown. He frequently collaborates with young winemakers, offering guidance and sharing his wealth of experience. He is a strong advocate for preserving the traditional winemaking heritage of El Bierzo while embracing modern innovations. As Gregory Pérez continues to evolve, his journey is a testament to the profound connection between dedication, innovation, and respect for the land.