Spotlight on Ribera del Duero - Wineries in the Breathtaking Spanish Countryside
Known for its prestigious wines and breathtaking vineyards, the Ribera del Duero region of central Spain delights both wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. From the winemaking traditions that date back centuries to the modern techniques that have elevated its reputation, this region showcases the perfect blend of history, terroir, and craftsmanship.
This incredible wine region is known for producing some of the country’s finest red wines. Wine enthusiasts visiting Madrid or other parts of central Spain should consider an excursion to the area. A tour of a local winery or vineyard offers the opportunity to sample a variety of wines and learn about the production process.
History of Viticulture in Ribero del Duero
The art of winemaking has a centuries-long history in the Ribera del Duero region. Local legend asserts that wine arrived in the region with Benedictine monks from the Burgundy region in France during the 12th century. They brought with them viticultural knowledge that would indelibly shape Ribera del Duero's wine production. The roots go back even further, as evidenced by the discovery of a 2,000-year-old, 66-meter mosaic depicting Bacchus, the revered god of wine, at Baños de Valdearados.
In 1982, a group of passionate wine producers and growers came together to establish the denominación de origen (D.O.) of Ribera del Duero. It served as a symbol of their commitment to upholding quality and adhering to strict regulatory standards. While rumors of elevation to denominación de origen calificada (DOCa) status circulated in 2008, Ribera del Duero remains a D.O. These days, Ribera del Duero wines are searching in popularity. This interest is propelled by the passion and expertise of growers from other established regions.
The Grapes of Ribera del Duero
Red wines account for most wines produced in the Ribera del Duero D.O. Most wines from this region are produced with the Tinto Fino grape, also known as Tempranillo. While Tinto Fino reigns supreme, it is often blended with other varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Merlot.
Although blended wines are more popular, the esteemed Tinto Pesquera is an example of a 100 percent Tempranillo wine. Created by the talented winemaker Alejandro Fernández in Pesquera de Duero, this red wine is an unadulterated expression of the 100 percent Tempranillo varietal. Interestingly, its introduction raised some controversy. It challenged the prevailing conventions of blending Tinto Fino with Bordeaux grapes such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec, a customary practice exemplified by the renowned Vega Sicilia wines.
Embracing the diverse tapestry of flavors, the region of Ribera del Duero encompasses an impressive selection of authorized red grape varieties, including the venerable Tinto Fino, along with the likes of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, and Garnacha Tinta. However, amid this red-dominated landscape, the region also recognizes the Albillo grape as the sole authorized white variety. White wines produced from Albillo add to the region's viticultural repertoire, underscoring Ribera del Duero's commitment to embracing both tradition and diversity in winemaking.
The Wine Production Process in Ribera del Duero
The wines of Ribera del Duero are produced much like the famed Rioja wine region. Despite their distinct terroirs, both regions are renowned for producing wines that age exceptionally well. The elaborate winemaking techniques and meticulous attention to detail produce complex and long-lasting wines. Their flavors are influenced by the limestone soils of their regions.
In Ribera del Duero, the classification system emphasizes the longevity of the wines alongside grape quality, ensuring the production of premium quality aged wines. The aging requirements in Ribera del Duero align with those in Rioja, where "Crianza" wines must age for two years, with a minimum of 12 months spent in oak barrels. "Reserva" wines need a minimum of three years of aging, including at least 12 months in oak. The more prestigious "Gran Reserva" wines age for a total of five years, with a minimum of two years in oak before release.
The region is home to several prominent wineries such as Viña Sastre, Vega Sicilia, Dominio de Pingus, Bodegas Arzuaga Navarro, Bodegas Alion, and Hacienda Monasterio, situated along the revered Golden Mile. These wineries have earned international acclaim, attracting esteemed patrons like Prince Charles and Alex Ferguson, who appreciate the exceptional quality of their wines.
Why Wine Lovers Should Visit Ribera del Duero
Conveniently located in central Spain, the Ribera del Duero wine region is an accessible stop for wine enthusiasts on vacation in Madrid. It’s only about a two-hour drive from the capital city. It’s also on the way to the northern coast (also known as the “green coast”), which is also famous for producing some of Spain’s best wines. If you’re looking to escape the chaos of the big city and enjoy some top-tier red wines in a beautiful natural setting, make sure to schedule a stop at Ribera del Duero in your itinerary.