What happens when a seasoned wine explorer falls head-over-heels for Spain’s lesser-known vineyards? You get De Haan Altés Custom Cuvées; a vibrant, terroir-driven wine project that blends deep passion with local expertise.
British-born Rafael De Haan spent over a decade crisscrossing Spain, curating wines for his acclaimed négociant business, Bodegas Abanico. Along the way, he uncovered hidden gems, unusual grapes, overlooked regions, and passionate winemakers with stories to tell. It didn’t take long before those discoveries sparked a new idea:
"Why not create wines that truly reflect these places and people?"
And just like that, the Custom Cuvées project was born as a collaboration between Rafael and the local winemakers he trusts, bringing to life small-batch wines full of personality and sense of place.
A Delicate Red with Spanish Roots
One of the standout expressions from this project hails from Salamanca, a region better known for castles than Cabernet. But don’t be fooled, as this red wine is a quiet stunner. This wine is made for the table. Its graceful structure and fresh fruit notes make it a dream pairing for your next outdoor lunch, tapas night, or a casual dinner.
De Haan Altés Custom Cuvées are more than boutique bottles, they are an invitation to taste Spain beyond the mainstream. They’re wines with a story, rooted in friendship, place, and the joy of crafting something honest and beautiful.
If you're ready to sip outside the usual Rioja-and-Tempranillo box, this is your ticket.
Salud!
''At the end of the day, you really can’t make a wrong choice.
As long as you pay attention to what it is that you don’t like about a wine
each bottle will get you closer to what you do like.
Take it one glass at a time!''