In a disturbing turn of events, Spain’s esteemed Cepa 21 winery, nestled in the heart of Ribera del Duero, became the unfortunate victim of a malicious act of sabotage.
Reports indicate that an intruder, under the cover of darkness, infiltrated the winery premises in Castrillo de Duero, Valladolid, on the early morning of Sunday, 18th February, causing catastrophic damage.
The Act of Sabotage
According to Spanish media reports and subsequent investigations by the Guardia Civil, CCTV footage captured the shocking incident. A hooded individual swiftly moved through the winery's cellar, methodically opening tanks and allowing approximately 60,000 liters of precious wine to spill onto the floor. The footage, widely circulated, vividly illustrates the deliberate and devastating nature of the attack.
Estimated Losses and Impact
The repercussions of this act are profound. José Moro Espinosa, president of Cepa 21, conveyed the profound impact in a heartfelt LinkedIn post on 19th February, acknowledging the difficult day faced by the entire winery community. Initial estimates suggest that the damage extends to around 20,000 liters intended for the prestigious Horcajo label, alongside significant quantities earmarked for the Malabrigo label. José Moro himself, speaking to El País, lamented the financial toll, estimating the total value of lost wine to exceed EUR 2.5 million.
Investigation and Responses
Authorities and winery officials are actively investigating the incident, although details regarding the perpetrator remain scant. A representative from Cepa 21, speaking to BBC News, noted the intruder's apparent familiarity with winemaking equipment, which facilitated the rapid execution of the sabotage. Despite speculations, it remains premature to ascertain the identity or motive behind this alarming act.
Resilience and Recognition
Ribera del Duero, renowned for its prestigious wineries and robust wine-making tradition, now faces an unexpected challenge. José Moro, a respected figure within the wine industry, has devoted his career to elevating Cepa 21 wines to global acclaim since its inaugural vintage in 2002. Recent accolades, such as the 92 points awarded to their "Hito" wine from the 2021 vintage by Decanter, underscore the winery’s commitment to excellence despite this setback.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation unfolds and the wine community grapples with this shocking event, solidarity and support pour in from across the globe. The resilience of Cepa 21 and Ribera del Duero's winemaking community stands testament to their unwavering spirit. While the immediate focus remains on recovery and restoration, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the industry. Through collective efforts and steadfast determination, the winemakers of Cepa 21 and Ribera del Duero are poised to emerge stronger, reaffirming their commitment to crafting exceptional wines and upholding their storied traditions.
Source: Decanter