The Ribera del Duero Designation of Origin recently concluded its 2023 harvest season. Spanning from August 29 to October 22, it lasted 54 days. This harvest, the 42nd in the region, involved 7,425 winegrowers and covered 27,256.10 hectares of registered vineyards. Notably, the harvest exceeded expectations, with 117,619,302 kilos of grapes, representing a 12% increase from the previous year. The majority of the harvest, 116,690,407 kilos, consisted of red grapes, predominantly Tinta Fina.
The commitment to quality is evident in the decision to primarily harvest grapes by hand, constituting 72.1% of the total area. This meticulous approach allows for precise selection and control of production directly from the vineyard. The yield per hectare, at 4,315 kilos, reflects the dedication of winegrowers and winemakers to low yields in pursuit of excellent grape quality.
Despite the challenging weather conditions characterized by a changing climate, including drought, heavy rains, low temperatures, and extreme heat, the vineyards in Ribera del Duero benefited. September rains were particularly advantageous, promoting grape enlargement and facilitating the completion of ripening processes in October. The unpredictable weather presented complexities, but the vineyards adapted, achieving essential ripening balances in terms of alcohol content, natural acidity, and pH. Consequently, the grapes were of optimal overall quality, with good health and physico-chemical condition.
The technological tool, WebBacchus application, played a crucial role, aiding the Certification Department of the Regulatory Council in monitoring the harvest. Additionally, on-site teams, including gaugers, campaign assistants, coordinators, and auditors, contributed to the success of the campaign.
The impact of climate change on the harvest season highlighted the adaptability of Ribera del Duero vineyards. The resulting wines from this vintage are anticipated to exhibit diverse qualities depending on the terroir, with white and rosé wines characterized by aromatic intensity and freshness, and red wines by aromatic potential, structure, and complexity. The phenological balance achieved in the ripening process is expected to yield wines expressing the distinct characteristics of a Ribera del Duero, including aromatic complexity, a long finish, and fleshiness. This vintage is poised to reinforce the reputation of Ribera del Duero as a producer of exceptional wines with a strong personality.
