As the warm sunshine begins to coat the vineyards in Ribera del Duero DO, announcing new beginnings, now is the time for wine enthusiasts to discover some of the exceptional wines the region has to offer.
Located in historic Castilla y León, just 2 hours north of Madrid, the picturesque vineyards of Ribera Del Duero DO unfurl along the meandering riverbanks, cascading upwards onto the slopes of the valley, and eventually reaching the windswept moorlands. Benefiting from an array of complex soils, old vines, high altitudes and challenging climates, each and every wine from this extraordinary region is an honest reflection of its own unique terroir. Its producers are continually honing their craft as they showcase this in their wines. It comes as no surprise that award-winning wine writer Tim Atkin MW describes Ribera del Duero DO as “one of the world’s most exciting wine regions.”
Whilst best-known for its magnificent red wines Ribera del Duero DO also produces exemplary rosés and white wines well worth exploring this spring.
The production of white wines under the Denominación de Origen was only authorised 5 years ago in 2019. White wines use at least 75% Albillo Mayor, a local grape that offers a beautiful spectrum of styles, that along with the rosé wines are a perfect match for spring salads and seafood dishes.
The Reserva and Gran Reserva red wines, made from Tempranillo (known locally as Tinto Fino or Tinta del País), stand out for their aromatic complexity, power and balance on the palate. They are an ideal accompaniment for a tender steak or with lamb shanks. The younger Cosecha and Crianza red wines are fresh, more fruit-forward and an excellent accompaniment to lighter dishes, perhaps served at the first barbecue of the year.
Examples of exceptional Ribera del Duero wines for spring are included overleaf, each one crafted with meticulous dedication and care by its winemaker.
Crianza & Cosecha
Bodega La Celestina Crianza Red 2019, 14.5% ABV, £18.50 at Vinissimus
This wine reveals smoky and toasty notes, whilst remaining intense and balanced on the mouth. This wine pairs well with white meats or lamb – 91 points.
Bodegas Hermanos Pérez Pascuas Cepa Gavilán Crianza Red 2021, 14.5% ABV £19.45 at Vinissimus
This wine claims floral flavours and hints of ripe blackberries. It is powerful and full-bodied on the mouth. For the perfect food pairing, it is best served with cured meats – 92 points.
Yllera Bodegas y Viñedos Pepe Yllera Cosecha Red 2021, 14% ABV, £11.42 at Decantalo
This wine delights with a silky and velvety texture, presenting flavours of forest fruits, blackcurrant, and a hint of vanilla. The wine would pair well with Charcuterie foods, soft cheese and red meats, due to its richer tone – 91 points.
Bodegas Monteabellón 14 Meses en Barrica Crianza Red 2021, 14.5 % ABV £23.95 at Vinissimus
This wine is intense and has a long-lasting finish. The wine has fruity flavours and hints of chocolate. It is applauded for its fantastic flavours, but even more so for its potential with age – 91 points.
Reserva & Gran Reserva
Bodegas La Horra Corimbo Reserva Red 2018, 14.5% ABV, £29.50 at Noble Green Wines
This wine is complex, exerting flavours of blackberries and cherries, whilst treating drinkers to a lengthy finish. It would pair well with a Sunday lunch, particularly those that are beef or lamb-based- a strong contender to keep in mind when looking to impress your friends and family over Easter – 95 points.
Rosé
Bodegas Antídoto Roselito Cosecha Rosé 2022, 13.5 % ABV, £13.85 at Decantalo
A simple, yet exciting rosé with zestful flavours. This wine is reasonably pale, pairing well with white meats – 92 points.
Stay up to date with Ribera Del Duero’s activities in the UK on Twitter @DORiberaUK and Instagram @riberadelduerouk or visit our UK site https://riberadelduero.es/uk/
ENDS
PRESS CONTACT: Laura Palmer at CUBE Communications - laura@cubecom.co.uk
About The Regulatory Council of Ribera del Duero DO
The Regulatory Council of Ribera del Duero DO is the body responsible for ensuring the authenticity of the region, making sure that each bottle that bears its label has passed strict quality controls. Just over 300 wineries make up this DO, which is situated in the Duero river basin and was voted Best Wine Region in the World in 2012. The wines of Ribera del Duero DO are characterised by their high quality, small production, and a strong commitment to innovation. The desire to overcome, experience and a creative mindset, together with dedication, tradition and talented winemakers and winegrowers make Ribera del Duero wines truly unique.
