Spain

Subcategories

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  Ribera del Duero

  Ribera del Duero is one of Spain's most prestigious wine regions, initially recognized as the home of the iconic Vega Sicilia. Over time, however, the region has grown to include numerous outstanding wineries such as Pesquera, Condado de Haza, and many more, with over 170 wineries now operating in the region.

  Located in Castilla y León, along the Duero River, Ribera del Duero covers more than 18,000 hectares of vineyards. The region is dedicated exclusively to red wine production, with Tempranillo (locally known as Tinto Fino) being the dominant grape variety. Tempranillo here reaches exceptional heights, producing wines that are full-bodied, deeply colored, and elegant, often with intense flavors of dark fruits, spices, and subtle oak influences.

  Wines from Ribera del Duero are known for their remarkable structure, depth, and ageability, making them some of the most sought-after wines in Spain. The climate, with its hot summers and cold winters, allows for a slow and steady ripening of the grapes, which contributes to the complexity of the wines. These wines are typically aged in oak barrels, which adds smooth tannins and further layers of flavor.

  Today, Ribera del Duero is home to some of the best wines in Spain, rivaling regions like Priorat and Rioja, and pairs excellently with grilled meats, roasted lamb, and aged cheeses.

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  Priorat

  Priorat is one of the stand-out Spanish wine regions, with an extraordinary leap in wine quality, reputation and price over the 1990s.

  This small wine appellation, with 1,700 hectares of vines and just over 60 bodegas, lies to the west of the province of Tarragona in Catalonia. 

  Amazingly rich, powerful red wines — made primarily from Garnacha and Carignan, two of Spain’s native varieties — have emerged from the harsh landscape of this region.

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  Rioja

  Rioja is known primarily for its red wines, although it also makes whites from the Viura and Malvasia grapes.

  The principal grape in Rioja is Tempranillo, Spain’s greatest red variety. But regulations permit another three varieties for reds — Garnacha (Grenache), Graciano (Carignan), and Mazuelo.

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  Toro

  The DO Toro wine region, located in the province of Zamora, Castile, near the Portuguese border, takes its name from the town of Toro. The region covers around 62,000 hectares, with 5,800 hectares planted with vines.

  Known for its powerful and intense red wines, the DO Toro's growth is largely attributed to the renowned Vega Sicilia estate and its Bodega Pintia project. The first wine from this young estate was released in 2001, and since then, numerous prestigious wineries from northern Spain, as well as international producers, have invested in the region. Prominent names include Numanthia-Termes, Vega Sicilia Pintia, Bodegas Mauro (Eduardo Garcia), and Campo Elíseo (Michel Rolland and Francois Lurton). Fifteen years ago, there were only 10 wineries in the region, but today there are over 50.

  Toro wines are primarily made from the Tinta de Toro, a local variant of Tempranillo, which produces wines that are rich, full-bodied, and deeply aromatic, with notes of black fruits, leather, and spices. These wines are often aged in oak barrels, developing exceptional complexity and depth over time. Due to their aging potential, Toro wines are increasingly sought after on the international stage.

  The region’s wines pair beautifully with grilled meats, stews, and aged cheeses, enhancing their robust and harmonious character. With the growing recognition of its quality, the DO Toro is now considered one of Spain’s most exciting wine regions.