At the invitation of the renowned Ribera del Duero wine region, Master of Wine Cees van Casteren, together with four top sommeliers, tasted 155 Ribera del Duero wines during a blind tasting. These four top sommeliers, Gerlinde Polak (Monarh*), Lex Deelder (Bridges), Martien Marcelissen (Oonivoo*) and Rianne Ogink (Zoldering), were not chosen at random for this unique tasting; they are the chosen ones, who have already won the blind wine tasting of Ribera del Duero at the 'Wine Professional 2020'.
In normal circumstances, this tasting would have taken place in the beautiful wine region of Ribera del Duero. In contrast, the fantastically beautiful Hotel Landgoed 'Het Roode Koper****, served as a worthy substitute venue.
Cees couldn't believe his luck because, via the biodynamic calendar, it also turned out to be two flower days. In other words, stimulating days for wine tasting. The positive tone was set and the real tasting could begin. From Rosado, Joven and Crianza to Reserva and Gran Reserva. A wide range of wines where they used their knowledge and tasting techniques to put together an ultimate selection. Wines that are excellent for the upcoming December month and matching dishes such as; game dishes, cheeses, vegetarian casseroles or grilled vegetables.
Also curious about their choices? From the top 20 lists below, you will find the 3 favourites per category according to Cees and the sommeliers. Have a look at www.riberadelduerowijn.nl for the full and promising top 20 outlet lists and get the best Ribera del Duero wines in time for the holidays.
Rosado Joven
1. Monteabellón, Avaniel 2019 1. Pago de Ina, Selección de Familia 2018
2. Protos, Aire de Protos 2019 2. Dominio Basconcillos, Finca de Altura 2018
3. Pinea, Korde 2019 3. Ribón, Vendimia Seleccionada 2016
Crianza Reserva & Gran Reserva
1. Alberto y Benito, Tiempo Briego 2016 1. Tinto Roa, Reserva 2014
2. Vitualia, 2015 2. Arzuaga, Reserva Especial 2015
3. Nuestro, Diaz Bayo 15 2017 3. Real Sitio de Ventosilla, 2009
Ribera del Duero
Those who know Ribera del Duero probably think of Tempranillo and powerful red wines from Spain, but Ribera del Duero has more to offer than just that! More than 300 winemakers not only make red and rosé, but since
briefly even some white wines. From Joven to Crianza to Reservas and Gran Reservas according to ageing. Although mainly from the same grape, the wines offer a lot of variety and possibilities, preferably drinking lightly chilled, especially in summer. If you are looking for a wine to enjoy yourself, to give as a gift or to surprise friends with at dinner, Ribera del Duero is always a good choice.
Ribera del Duero is by far one of the best red wine regions in Spain. The wines owe their exciting character to the high altitude of the vineyards on the banks of the Duero river, relatively close to the Atlantic Ocean. With extreme temperature variations throughout the year, the grapes develop full and complex aromas. The locals therefore describe the climate as "nine months of winter and three months of hell" These unique conditions and the professionalism of the winemakers were among the reasons why the area was named ''Wine Region of the Year' by the prestigious Wine Enthusiast magazine.
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