High altitude and severe continental conditions give Ribera del Duero reds concentrated fruit, firm structure and the freshness needed for ageing.
Location
Region
Castile and León
Protected status
Protection
DOP · DO
Wine profile
Typical focus
Structured red wines, Oak-aged Crianza and Reserva styles
Varieties
Notable grapes
Tempranillo / Tinto Fino, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Identity and character
What defines Ribera del Duero?
High altitude and severe continental conditions give Ribera del Duero reds concentrated fruit, firm structure and the freshness needed for ageing.
Growing conditions
Climate
High continental plateau with cold winters, hot days, cool nights and low rainfall.
Place and soils
Landscape
River valleys, high plains, slate slopes and historic old-vine parcels.
Wine categories
Characteristic wine styles
- Structured red wines
- Oak-aged Crianza and Reserva styles
- Rosé / clarete
- Small amounts of white wine
Varieties
Notable grapes
- Tempranillo / Tinto Fino
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
- Malbec
- Albillo Mayor
At the table
Food pairing ideas
- Roast lamb
- Suckling pig
- Cured meats
- Mushrooms
- Aged cheeses