Ribera del Duero is a high plain on the Iberian Peninsula where more than 12,000 hectares of grape vines are grown. The vineyards are split on either side of the Douro River, in the four provinces of Castile and León. The vines, which are planted at up to 900 metres above sea level, enjoy a broad temperature range and immensely diverse terroirs. In this vast region, the soil is covered in part by sand, limestone and clay sediments, which alternate with layers of limestone and marl. Winemakers discovered paradise here a long time ago.

The region has been categorized as a Denominación de Origen (DO) since 1982, following an initiative by growers who were keen on developing their industry. They introduced new growing practices, modern technology in their cellars and rigorous control processes—all of which proved beneficial. Ribera del Duero gained international acclaim for its high-quality wines, which have only increased in sophistication, smoothness and elegance since then.

Ribera del Duero has been a DO since 1982. Prior to that, the grapes were almost exclusively vinified by cooperatives. But since then, winemaking has grown tremendously in popularity, particularly with red wines in northern Spain, which Hugh Jackson has dubbed a “wonder of modern times.” Today, Ribera del Duero has gained international renown and is known for its high-quality wines.

Several wines are vinified as varietal wines made of Tempranillo, which is also known locally as Tinta del País and Tinta Fina. Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Noir, Malbec and Merlot also take up a fair share of the vineyards, as does Albillo, a white grape that offers notes of apple and peach.