This high-altitude wine region located in Castilla y Leon, has been coming on strong within the last few years. Since around 1994, Ribera del Duero has been producing some the finest wine in Spain, over shadowing the top region of Rioja. The main grape that is planted is "Tinta del Pais" also know as Tempranillo. This wine region achieved DOC status in 2008 and continues to improve vintage after vintage. Most wines in this region are made the modern way, newer barrels, higher alcohol levels, and released right after being bottled. Some wineries like to hold onto their wines, for example, Bodegas Vega Sicilia, the oldest winery in the region, usually holds their top wine "Unico" for up to 10 years from the vintage date before release, and it usually scores over 95 points from Robert Parker and Wine Spectator. Top 5 wineries in this region are: Bodegas Aalto, Bodegas Vega Sicilia, Bodegas Emilio Moro, Bodegas Dominio de Pingus and Bodegas Tinto Pesquera.

KEY INFORMATION ABOUT RIBERA DEL DUERO

• Official Denominación de Origen Calificada Year: 2008
• Acres Under Vine: 49,400
• Soil: Clay, Limestone, Silt 
• Vineyard Elevation: 2400 to 3100 Feet
• Major Grapes (Red): Tempranillo, Garnacha, Cabernet Savignon, Malbec, Merlot
• Major Grapes (White): Albillo
• Estimated Wineries: 245

WEATHER IN RIBERA DEL DUERO

SELECTION OF RIBERA DEL DUERO WINES

Bodegas Arrocal, Arrocal
Region: Ribera del Duero
Grape Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
Usually Scores: 90-91
Price: $19

Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez, Pesquera
Region: Ribera del Duero
Grape Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
Usually Scores: 90-93
Price: $36

Bodegas Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5
Region: Ribera Del Duero
Grape Varietal: 85% Tempranillo, 15% Merlot/Malbec
Usually Scores: 91-95
Price: $190