Ribera del Duero Wine from Spain

It is incredible to think that Ribera del Duero only became a DO in 1982. The region produces some of Spains most famous and expensive wines and overall is a consistent producer of excellent wines. It has been home to the legendary Vega Sicilia since 1864, which has been joined within recent years by, among many others, Dominio de Pingus  Spains most expensive wine.

The reasons for wine quality in the area are geology and climate. Without getting technical the soil structure is ideal for vine growing. Interestingly, the same structure exists to the west in the port vineyards where the Duero becomes the Douro and in the east in the highly rated Priorato vineyards. The climate is continental and thus very hot in the summer. However, because the vineyards are at an altitude of between 750  850 metres there is a significant temperature drop at night. This has the effect of allowing the vines to rest which in turn has a beneficial effect on the development of the grapes.

The third factor which influences the wine quality, apart from geology and climate, is the type of grape. In the case of Ribera del Duero this is tempranillo, known locally as tinto de pais or tinto fino. As a grape indigenous to Spain it is particularly suited to being grown in the region. Given these conditions it is perhaps unsurprising that the wines of Ribera del Duero are of a consistent quality. Although the wines are not among the cheapest on offer they continue to provide good value for money.

This Article on Sweet Spanish Wine was written by Steve Bannell of Alegria Wines. Telephone 0034 626 469 154

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