The Consejo Regulador de la Denominación de Origen Ribera del Duero harvested a total of 125 million kilos of grapes between 17 September and early November. A total of 8,300 winemakers and 315 wineries were jointly responsible for harvesting the 23,200 hectares of land registered with the Denominacion de Origen. During the harvest, it was immediately apparent that the grapes were healthy and of excellent quality. The grapes are expected to lend themselves well to making storage wines as well as wines to enjoy young.
The growing season in Ribera del Duero was colder than usual this year, with even a few nights of frost in May. As a result, the vines got going a bit later than usual. June was fortunately a good month and in July the hot Spanish summer began, during which the grapes were able to develop nicely.
Long harvest period
"We have had a long harvest period. The first grapes were harvested as early as 17 September and only now, in early November, have the last bunches been brought in. Conditions in October were perfect for harvesting ripe grapes, with maximum temperatures of 25 degrees during the day and cold nights of around 5 degrees. Overall, the grapes from this year's harvest have very good acidity and firm but not excessive tannins. On the palate, the wines show a bit fresher than usual," said Agustín Alonso, technical director of the Consejo Regulador.
The Consejo Regulador de la Denominación de Origen Ribera del Duero is the organisation responsible for maintaining the quality and authenticity of wines from this region. They ensure that every bottle bearing the label complies with strict quality controls.
Best wine region
Almost 300 wine producers have obtained this label, and in 2012 the region was voted best wine region of the year. Ribera del Duero DO wines are distinguished by their high quality, limited production and innovative dedication. The desire to excel, the experience and creative attitude combined with dedication, tradition and talent of the wine producers, make the wines from Ribera del Duero unique. www.riberadeldeuro.es
Don't want to miss a single edition? Subscribe then subscribe to Winelife magazine now!
English (UK) 
Nederlands 
Deutsch