Discovering Ribera del Duero: A Region Famed for its Fine Wines

Located in the northwest of Spain, approximately two hours north of Madrid, Ribera del Duero is found in the centre of Castilla y Leon, Spain’s largest state. The region unfolds over 115km east to west along the Duero River, with the name being a direct translation of Riverbanks of the Duero. Home to over 300 wineries, spread over 25,035 acres, this area has heaps of diversity. The vineyards here lie at some of the highest altitudes in the northern hemisphere, with elevations exceeding 1,000 metres in places. As a result, wines have a unique quality, making them difficult to imitate elsewhere in the world.

One thing which makes this region quite extraordinary is the climate. A continental climate is enjoyed here, with the addition of extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Summers are long and hot with low rainfall, followed by harsh winters where vines experience bitterly cold weather. In fact, temperatures here can vary a staggering 60 degrees, with highs of 40 degrees in mid-summer and lows of -20 degrees in winter. The dramatic changes in weather and swings in temperature create completely unique conditions which is what makes the grapes, and resulting wine, just so special. The grapes remain small in size and develop thick skins which helps to protect them from the plummeting temperatures until harvest. A variety of soil types add to the complexity of this region, with clay, limestone and stony soils here forming alternating layers, each bringing their own characteristics to the grapes. These factors combined create a terroir unlike any other.

This region is famed for its reds, with Tempranillo being the top dog here. Known locally as Tinto Fino or Tinto Pais, Tempranillo thrives in the unique climate and is responsible for the deep, rich reds which are definitive of Ribera del Duero. Yields are often small, which is thought to add to the quality of the produce and ultimately increases the desirability of vino from this region. The DO regulations here mean Tempranillo must account for at least 75% of any red wines produced, with the balance commonly made up of other bold reds, predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Garnacha Tinta. However, a majority of red wines produced here are 100% Tempranillo. These heavy-duty reds are the perfect candidates for ageing, so it will come as no surprise that the region of Ribera del Duero imposes strict ageing requirements, similar to those found in Rioja.

That said, there is still huge amounts of variety found here when it comes to ageing. Wines can be young and fruit forward with minimal time spent in oak – known as Joven or Roble – or have longer periods of ageing to create greater complexity and depth in the wines. Crianza wines are subject to the shortest minimum ageing requirements with at least two years required, one of which must be in oak. Reserva refers to those aged for a minimum of three years, with at least one in oak and Gran Reserva refers to those aged for the longest period of time with a minimum of five years before release and a minimum of two of those in oak. These ageing requirements result in wines with differing characteristics, with those aged for the longest periods of time often being amongst the most sought after.

White wines are also produced here, albeit in very small quantities with white grapes accounting for less than 5% of all those grown in the region. Despite the much smaller number, the quality is never compromised. In order to comply with the rules of the DO, white wines here must be crafted from at least 75% of the regions signature white grape, Albillo Mayor, a local variety primarily found in Ribera del Duero and the surrounding areas. With regulations changing here in recent years, allowing the production of white wines under the DO, it’s expected that popularity of whites from this region will grow quickly – that’s certainly something to look forward to!

Small quantities of rosé can also be found in this diverse region. Known as Rosado here, rosé must be produced from at least 50% of the permitted red grape varieties under the DO, with most being produced from Tempranillo. The style of these wines is similar to that of the reds, with rosé here having slightly more colour, body and flavour compared to those produced elsewhere in the world. Thanks to recent changes in regulations, Rosado wines can be aged under the same ageing requirements as the reds of this region creating greater variation and complexity.

Winemakers are dedicated here to producing wine of the utmost quality, whilst respecting the land and the environment around them. It’s a place full of people with a genuine passion for exceptional vino, and it has quickly become a reputable region which is recognised across the world. One of the brilliant things about Ribera del Duero is despite its reputation for fine wines, and the appellation becoming popular with top wine collectors across the globe, prices have remained affordable and accessible. This is great news, as it means exceptional value for money for wines of the highest quality. However, with the increasing number of iconic wines flying out of this region, it’s fair to say prices may not remain low for too much longer. Therefore, getting in now and stocking up on the good stuff from this part of Spain is a wise decision.

With that in mind, our wine buyer, Alex Davies, has been on a mission to source some of this show stopping stuff to add to our diverse range of Spanish wines. It’s fair to say he’s done a brilliant job and sourced two new vinos from Ribera del Duero which you want to be sure to get your hands on quickly.

First up we have Milu Ribera del Duero Roble 2020, a Tempranillo from the incredibly talented winemakers, Germain Blanco and Jose Luis Herrero. Produced as part of a family project, Quinta Milu, the winemakers believe in little intervention and recovering traditions. The grapes used in this wine are grown in a sustainable manner and hand harvested with strict site selection from across multiple vineyards, highlighting the care and attention these guys put into producing great wine. The wine is fermented and then aged for six months in French and American oak to allow the tannins to soften and the wine to increase in complexity and flavour. The resulting wine is vegan and full of ripe dark fruit flavours, black cardamom, liquorice and a peppery spice. A great acidity keeps the wine fresh with supple tannins.

The second addition to our range is the Bodegas Emilio Moro DO Ribera del Duero 2018. Jose and Javier Moro are third generation winemakers who create wines with personality and individuality. Their wines express their vineyards and family’s heritage and are a true representation of the world-famous village of Pesquera de Duero. This Tempranillo is elegant and subtle, and produced from low yields which brings out the best in the variety. The wine is refined through ageing in oak barrels for 12 months, giving it a slightly woody nuance. The palate is powerful with soft, mellow tannins creating a deliciously smooth and drinkable wine.

And there we have it, an exciting region on the rise. If you have been inspired to find out more about this lively region, or fancy trying a bottle or two from Ribera del Duero then head over to the link below.