30th March 2026 | Cork Talk | 5 minute read
Ribera del Duero is famous for its curation of the Tempranillo grape, or as locals call it, Tinto Fino. Winemaking has been in this region for thousands of years, with over a third of vines being 45 years old, and 10% of vines 80+ years old. The result is grapes that are smaller with thick skins, deep colour and more complex flavours, making the most unique and tasty wines. So, read on to discover why you should explore Ribera del Duero wines when topping up your wine rack.
One of the main reasons this region is so distinctive is due to the somewhat rare climatic conditions Ribera del Duero endures. The region experiences a generally continental climate accompanied by extreme temperature fluctuations, which really put the vines to the test. Over summer months temperatures can reach scorching highs of 40 degrees during the daytime with very little rainfall, followed by harsh winters and bitterly cold temperatures of -20 degrees. These extremes create completely unique conditions which are really what make the wines from this region so interesting.
The grapes remain small due to the limited rainfall and the skins become thick to help protect them until harvest from the drop in temperature. With temperatures fluctuating up to 50 degrees in a single day, the ripening process is slowed allowing for softer, suppler tannins to be formed. As a result the wines produced in this region are often very approachable in their youth, yet also wonderfully age worthy. So whether you are a fan of fresh, young reds or rich, powerful ones that have been aged to perfection, you’re bound to find a wine here to suit your palate.
The terroir found in Ribera del Duero is one of a kind, particularly when it comes to the variety of soil types found here. Stretching 70 miles east to west, the vineyard area sits on an ancient plinth located in the northern sub-plateau of the Iberian Peninsula at over 700 metres in altitude, with some areas reaching heights of 1,000 metres. Over time the soil has evolved in this region developing characteristics perfect for grape growing.
Alternating layers of sandy silt and clay can be found, combined with layers of limestone and chalky concretions. Each element adds an extra layer of interest to the wine creating a well-rounded palate. The clay soils help to retain water and add structure and character to the wine, whilst the limestone adds elegance and complexity, and the stony areas help to add maturity and sweetness. This unique mosaic of soils combined with the extreme weather conditions create a terroir unlike any other.
With such a long history of winemaking in this part of the world, it may come as no surprise that the region is home to an abundance of old vines. In fact, around 95% of vines in the region are Tempranillo and 35% of these are at least 25 years old, with some over 100 years old! These older vines have very deep roots that bury themselves into the soil to find water and nutrients, which is particularly important due to the drought-like conditions vines can experience in this region.
These older vines produce lower yields with very small fruits, meaning the grapes have more concentrated sugars and flavours, resulting in much richer and fuller-bodied wines with great complexity. This makes the wines the perfect candidates for ageing, allowing the tannins to soften and the wine to develop tertiary aromas and flavours.
One thing that really makes this region stand out above all others is the dedication of its winemakers. Although there are a few big players in the region, most wineries here are small, family owned operations, with over half of them producing less than 9,000 cases annually. This focus on quality over quantity is hugely important in Ribera del Duero and winemakers here really do pride themselves on making sure every bottle produced is next level. Many use traditional winemaking practises that have been passed down through generations, such as harvesting the grapes by hand, as well as opting for traditional fermentation techniques that add to the quality of these wines.
Today, we’re shining a spotlight on the winemakers behind the bottles in our portfolio:
An incredibly talented winemaker from Finca Villacreces, Luis Laso has been fortunate to work in a vineyard neighbouring the renowned Vega Sicilia. With the best-quality fruit and no expense spared in the winery and cellar, Luis has been able to produce some delicious wines, such as Finca Vilacreces Ribera del Duero Tinto.
A winemaking duo upholding tradition and family heritage, José and Javier Moro have been crafting wines with personality and individuality for many years. They continue to adhere to traditional classifications like Crianza and Reserva, representing the true expression of their vineyard. Using a mix of French and American oak barrels, they have crafted a powerful and balanced wine, Bodegas Emilio Moro DO Ribera del Duero.
An exceptional winemaking partnership, Jose and Noelia bring their experience from Petrus and Cobos to craft wines that showcase the unique terroir of their estate. Using the franc-clayey soils and limestone bottoms, the Bodegas Felix Callejo DO Ribera del Duero Parajes de Callejo, at this winery, is elegant with fine and delicate tannin, displaying a flavour profile with true authenticity.
Jorge uses a mix of organic farming methods and traditional winemaking techniques to craft wines with both purity and unique personality. His passion for using a hand-off approach in the winery ensures he can create wines with bright acidity and youthful vibrancy, such as Dominio del Aguila Picaro.
If you have been inspired to find out more about Ribera del Duero, or fancy trying a bottle or two then head over to the link below.
