The wines of Can Ràfols dels Caus have once again positioned themselves among the leading references in Spanish wine in the prestigious Tim Atkin 2026 report, earning outstanding scores and a very special recognition for Carlos Esteva, founder and soul of the winery.
The international publication led by renowned wine critic Tim Atkin has once again highlighted the uniqueness and excellence of the wines born in the Garraf Massif, consolidating decades of work by one of the most influential wineries in the Penedès region.
Can Ràfols dels Caus scores in Tim Atkin 2026
Among the highest-rated wines in this year’s edition are:
- Montombra Blanc 2022 — 95 points
- El Rocallís 2023 — 95 points
- La Calma 2023 — 95 points
- Xarel·lo Pairal 2023 — 94 points
- Gran Caus Negre 2022 — 93 points
- Gran Caus Blanc 2023 — 92 points
These scores reaffirm the unique personality of Can Ràfols dels Caus wines, crafted in an exceptional environment defined by limestone soils, Mediterranean forest and the maritime influence of the Garraf region.
A tribute to Carlos Esteva and his legacy in Penedès
In this edition, Tim Atkin awarded the “Legend” prize for the very first time as a posthumous tribute to Carlos Esteva, recognising his fundamental role in transforming viticulture in Penedès and the Garraf Massif.
The report includes the following words:
“This is the first time we are awarding the Legend award as a tribute, but it would be a crime to not celebrate the work of Carlos Esteva who not only formed the backbone of winemaking on the Garraf Massif, but contributed enormously to the viticulture and understanding of the Penedès as we know it. Sadly, Carlos passed away in 2023 but his work continues and the wines of Can Ràfols dels Caus are, to this day, some of the very best in the region and a lesson in following your own path.”
This international recognition highlights the pioneering vision of Carlos Esteva, who championed authentic, low-intervention viticulture long before these concepts became widely known. His work helped define a new identity for Penedès wines, based on landscape, biodiversity and the expression of terroir.
The legacy continues
Today, Can Ràfols dels Caus continues to craft wines with the same philosophy that turned the winery into an international benchmark: respect for the environment, pursuit of authenticity and a deep connection with the land.
The ratings achieved in Tim Atkin 2026 and the tribute to Carlos Esteva reinforce the legacy of a winery that has shaped the recent history of wine in Catalonia and Spain.
More information about the winery and its wines at Can Ràfols dels Caus
