Ribera del Duero is renowned as one of Spain’s top red wine–producing regions. Ribera del Duero is located in the northwest of the country, about two hours north of Madrid, in the center of Castilla y León, Spain’s largest autonomía, or state. Ribera del Duero, which translates to the riverbanks of the Duero, is mostly a high plateau ranging from 2,200 to 2,800 feet. It is host to as many as 30 different soil types, though mostly sand, limestone, chalk, and sand, all of which contribute to the distinctive nature of the region’s dominant grape, Tempranillo.
Tempranillo grown here is so distinct that it is referred to locally as Tinto Fino and Tinta del Pais in order to distinguish it from other Spanish-grown Tempranillo. The berries from this region are smaller, the skin is thicker, the color is darker, and the acidity runs high. These characteristics result in wines that run the flavor gamut from ripe red fruits to blueberry to plum and cassis; to spice, leather, and tobacco.
These wines are big, bold and textured, but with plenty of rich, old-world sensibility. The region is home to some of Spain’s most sought after and applauded wines. Riberas are crafted to age, developing complexity over time, yet balancing acidity and generous fruit, they’re unequivocally food-friendly wines to drink young. The spices, dark fruit and smoky flavors of Ribera enhance anything off the grill, roasted meats, and rich pastas.
Ribera del Duero wines can best be compared to Cabernet Sauvignon from the Napa Valley thanks to those rich and bold flavors, but tend to be more refined and Old World in style, more balance and less overpowering oak.
Did You Know?
- There were only nine wineries and 15,000 acres of vineyards when Ribera del Duero achieved D.O. status in 1982.
- Ribera is now proud to host 270 wineries, with 55,000 acres of vineyards.
- Tempranillo is a thick-skinned black grape, ripening early to survive short growing seasons. It is capable of producing complex wines that develop over a long period of time.
- Wine must be 75 percent Tempranillo for it to be recognized by the D.O.
Ribera y Rueda were bestowed the Denominación de Origen (D.O.) status in the 1980’s. The D.O. Ribera del Duero Classifications are:
Crianza: Aged a minimum of two years, one year in oak and at least six months in barrel for rosé (rosado).
Reserva: Aged a minimum of three years, at least one year in oak and the remaining time in bottle.
Gran Reserva: Aged a minimum of five years, at least two years in oak and the remaining time in bottle.
Cosecha: This is a bit of a catch-all and can mean everything from the youngest wine to the longest-aged, most sophisticated wine as long as it comes from the Ribera del Duero and meets the minimum standards set by the appellation.
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