From the first plantations to the rise of wine cellars

Wine is like a liquid time capsule. Did you know that a glass of wine can tell you the story of centuries gone by? Join us on a journey through time through wine!

Wine is like a mosaic of flavours and aromas, and much of this diversity comes from the wide range of grape varieties available. Each grape variety has its own personality and contributes to the infinite palette of wines available around the world.

There are many factors that make a wine a certain way in addition to the grape variety. In Ribera del Duero the emblematic grape is tinta fina or tempranillo, which represents the majority of the planting in the region.

The climate of the region experiences very extreme temperatures, with very hot summers and very cold winters. The harsh climate contributes to the concentration of flavour in the grapes, especially in the red varieties. The type of soil in which the vines grow can influence the character of the grapes. In addition to the altitude at which the vineyard is located, Ribera del Duero is known for having some vineyards at more than 800 metres above sea level.

The way the vines are cared for, including pruning, irrigation and canopy management, can also influence the quality and character of the wines along with the creativity of the winemaker of course.

 

Wine is a perfect partner for food

The science of food and wine pairing, which combines wines and dishes to bring out the flavours, is an art. It is important to remember that, on many occasions, wine served as the only sustenance in this area.

Typical Ribera dishes such as roast suckling lamb and chops roasted with vine shoots are considered perfect pairings for its red wines, while a fresh white wine from Rueda can enhance the freshness of a good seafood or fish dish. The famous sparkling wines are known for their effervescence and elegance. But did you know that the pressure in a bottle of Champagne is equivalent to that of a car tyre? Handling these bottles requires skill and caution as does drinking them!

As the wine ages, its taste and character evolve. The underground cellars Underground cellars offer perfect temperature and humidity conditions, essential for wine ageing.

 

A Toast to Evolution: Celebrating History and the Future

As we explore the history and evolution of wine, we cannot help but look to the future. Technology and innovation continue to impact viticulture, from production to distribution. New wine regions emerge, and grape varieties experience renewed appreciation. Wine is not just a beverage, but a bridge between the past and the future, a link that celebrates diversity, creativity and the pleasure of sharing.

Every sip of wine takes us on a historical journey. From its modest beginnings in the lands of the Caucasus thousands of years ago, to its proliferation in Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece and Rome, wine has witnessed the evolution of civilisations. In ancient Mesopotamia, it was considered a sacred drink, while in Egypt, it was appreciated for its medicinal properties. The Greeks, meanwhile, associated it with Dionysus, the god of wine and entertainment. Each culture brings its own unique perspective, enriching the history of wine.