Spain is located in the Iberian Peninsula in southwest Europe. The vast country of Spain has a long history of winemaking. It was the gathering place of various wine grapes tens of thousands of years ago. Spain is also one of the most diverse wine-producing countries in the world, with a variety of wine styles, including red wines made in traditional styles and aged in oak barrels, as well as fruity white wines made using modern methods.
As a traditional wine-making country, Spain has a complete set of wine regulations. Since its establishment in 1932, Spanish wine regulations have been advancing with the times and have been adjusted according to actual conditions to ensure that the entire system is more in line with the current market requirements for high-quality wines. Spanish wines with protected designation of origin (Denominacion de Origen, referred to as DO) are being recognized by the international market for their high quality, unique style and outstanding expression of brewing technology. The designation of origin protection system is also a guarantee for the quality and diversity of Spanish wine.
The birth and classification of the Spanish Designation of Origin System (DO)
Spanish wine regulations began with Rioja (Rioja) , and the Production Area Regulation Committee was established in 1926. In 1932, Spain established the legal production area system, demarcating 19 legal production areas (Denominacion de Origen) across the country. Each DO can establish its own regulatory committee to formulate regulations, and the wine legal production area system was established.
Spanish management regulations have been updated several times in the following decades, and was revised in 1970. includes: establishing a nationwide supervision agency, standardizing operating methods in all aspects from planting to brewing, dividing product quality levels, and integrating with the EU classification system.
In Spain, those that meet the EU PDO include high-quality protected designations of origin (Denominación de Origen Calificada, abbreviated as DOCa), protected designations of origin (Denominación de Origen, abbreviated as DO), special geographical indications protected high-quality wines (Vinos de Calidad, abbreviated as VC) and single vineyards (Vinos de Pago, abbreviated as VP); and what meets the EU geographical indication protection label PGI is Spanish regional table wine (Vino de la Tierra, abbreviated as VdlT). Except for these few, belongs to ordinary table wines without geographical indications. They are generally identified by Vino de Mesa, abbreviated VdM.
The highest grade of Spanish wine is DOCa
The highest grade of Spanish wine is the high-quality Protected Designation of Origin (Denominación de Origen Calificada, abbreviated as DOCa) regulations originated in 1988. Currently, there are only two DOCa-level production areas in Spain, namely Rioja and Priorat in Catalonia. The
regulations stipulate that in order to obtain the highest level of DOCa, must obtain the DO level ten years before applying for , and the production area must continue to maintain high-quality production and a good reputation. Compared with other DO production areas, these two DOCa have higher quality requirements, and the wines they produce can better reflect the local terroir and winemaking tradition. They are the best representatives of Spanish wine history and quality, and the average price of wine is also at the forefront of all production areas. It is reported that the Duero River production area passed the DOCa level approval in 2008, and becoming a DOCa level is just around the corner.
There are 68 production areas that have obtained the protected designation of origin (DO)
After the DOCa level, there is the protected designation of origin (Denominación de Origen, abbreviated as DO). This level is equivalent to France's AOC and Italy's DOC. There are currently 68 DO in Spain. Each DO production area needs to meet the most basic quality requirements, grape varieties and cultivation methods, and be located in a certain geographical location. As DO wine, it needs to meet more stringent standards: designated grape varieties, lower yields, more stringent aging requirements, etc., and the wine produced needs to reflect the local terroir characteristics and traditions.
Spain is located in the Iberian Peninsula in southwest Europe. The vast country of Spain has a long history of winemaking. It was the gathering place of various wine grapes tens of thousands of years ago. Spain is also one of the most diverse wine-producing countries in the world, with a variety of wine styles, including red wines made in traditional styles and aged in oak barrels, as well as fruity white wines made using modern methods.
As a traditional wine-making country, Spain has a complete set of wine regulations. Since its establishment in 1932, Spanish wine regulations have been advancing with the times and have been adjusted according to actual conditions to ensure that the entire system is more in line with the current market requirements for high-quality wines. Spanish wines with protected designation of origin (Denominacion de Origen, referred to as DO) are being recognized by the international market for their high quality, unique style and outstanding expression of brewing technology. The designation of origin protection system is also a guarantee for the quality and diversity of Spanish wine.
The birth and classification of the Spanish Designation of Origin System (DO)
Spanish wine regulations began with Rioja (Rioja) , and the Production Area Regulation Committee was established in 1926. In 1932, Spain established the legal production area system, demarcating 19 legal production areas (Denominacion de Origen) across the country. Each DO can establish its own regulatory committee to formulate regulations, and the wine legal production area system was established.
Spanish management regulations have been updated several times in the following decades, and was revised in 1970. includes: establishing a nationwide supervision agency, standardizing operating methods in all aspects from planting to brewing, dividing product quality levels, and integrating with the EU classification system.
In Spain, those that meet the EU PDO include high-quality protected designations of origin (Denominación de Origen Calificada, abbreviated as DOCa), protected designations of origin (Denominación de Origen, abbreviated as DO), special geographical indications protected high-quality wines (Vinos de Calidad, abbreviated as VC) and single vineyards (Vinos de Pago, abbreviated as VP); and what meets the EU geographical indication protection label PGI is Spanish regional table wine (Vino de la Tierra, abbreviated as VdlT). Except for these few, belongs to ordinary table wines without geographical indications. They are generally identified by Vino de Mesa, abbreviated VdM.
The highest grade of Spanish wine is DOCa
The highest grade of Spanish wine is the high-quality Protected Designation of Origin (Denominación de Origen Calificada, abbreviated as DOCa) regulations originated in 1988. Currently, there are only two DOCa-level production areas in Spain, namely Rioja and Priorat in Catalonia. The
regulations stipulate that in order to obtain the highest level of DOCa, must obtain the DO level ten years before applying for , and the production area must continue to maintain high-quality production and a good reputation. Compared with other DO production areas, these two DOCa have higher quality requirements, and the wines they produce can better reflect the local terroir and winemaking tradition. They are the best representatives of Spanish wine history and quality, and the average price of wine is also at the forefront of all production areas. It is reported that the Duero River production area passed the DOCa level approval in 2008, and becoming a DOCa level is just around the corner.
There are 68 production areas that have obtained the protected designation of origin (DO)
After the DOCa level, there is the protected designation of origin (Denominación de Origen, abbreviated as DO). This level is equivalent to France's AOC and Italy's DOC. There are currently 68 DO in Spain. Each DO production area needs to meet the most basic quality requirements, grape varieties and cultivation methods, and be located in a certain geographical location. As DO wine, it needs to meet more stringent standards: designated grape varieties, lower yields, more stringent aging requirements, etc., and the wine produced needs to reflect the local terroir characteristics and traditions.
Below the DO level is the VCIG level: high-quality wines protected by special geographical indications (Vinos de Calidad, abbreviated as VC). This level is the basic level of Spanish legal production area wine. A production area needs to obtain the VCIG level for 5 years before it can be eligible to apply for the DO level. Currently there are 7 VC producing areas in Spain.
The above is the historical process of the birth of the Spanish designation of origin system in the past century . Although the regulations and numbers may seem a bit boring and strict, they are a wine-producing country that has made unremitting efforts to promote the standardization and healthy development of the wine industry. It is also the greatest guarantee for Spanish wine lovers around the world.
Now, let us travel to Spain's famous production area and immerse ourselves in the region's terroir and wine stories!
The diversity of terroir and climate brings a variety of possibilities to Spanish wine.
Spain has three main climate zones. The coastal production areas in the north and west have a mild maritime climate. The Green Spain region dominated by the Atlantic system is the place with the most rainfall in Spain. The vineyards here enjoy the cool sea breeze and fog. This area contains a total of 8 DO production areas, which mainly produce red and white wines with fresh, sour and fruity aromas. The most well-known in the world is DO Rías Baixas, which was awarded DO in 1988. It is famous for its high-quality dry white wine with fresh and fruity aroma produced from the Albariño variety.
The 8 DOs of Green Spain include:
DO Chacolí de Álava - Arabako Txakolina
DO Chacolí de Bizkaia - Bizkaiko Txakolina
DO Chacolí de Getaria - Getariako Txakolina
DO Monterrei
DO Rías Baixas
DO Ribeiro
DO Ribeira Sacra
DO Valdeorras
Slightly closer to the inland is the Duero River Valley region, which contains a total of 9 DO production areas. It is influenced by the famous Duero River that flows through Spain and Portugal. The protection of the mountains and the altitude bring about a temperature difference between day and night. The unique natural conditions allow it to produce red wines with structure and rich fruit aroma. Among them, DO Ribera del Duero (DO Ribera del Duero) is famous for producing high-quality Tempranillo red wine (locally known as Tinta del País or Tinto Fino). The wine is fresh and fruity when young, and has great aging ability, and is highly praised internationally.
The 9 DOs in the Duero Valley region include:
DO Ribera del Duero
DO Rueda
DO Toro
DO Bierzo
DO Arribes
DO Tierra del Vino de Zamora
DO Arlanza
DO Cigales
DO Tierra de León
Next to the Duero Valley region is the Ebro River Valley region. Valley) , this area contains a total of 6 DO production areas. There are simultaneous Atlantic, inland and Mediterranean influences, while the Ebro River also nourishes the valley, bringing a variety of unique soils. The local area has the ability to produce various styles of wine. The red grape variety Tempranillo is the absolute protagonist of this production area, and Garnacha also performs well. The Rioja production region, which was the first to obtain DO and DOCa, is undoubtedly a high-profile production region in this region and produces a large number of high-quality Spanish wines.
The 6 DOs in the Ebro Valley region include:
DOCa Rioja
DO Navarra
DO Campo de Borja
DO Cariñena
DO Calatayud
DO Somontano
Rioja production area (DOCa Rioja)
In 1926, Rioja became the first wine region to obtain DO. It was promoted to DOCa in 1991 and has maintained a high level of production. Rioja is located in northern Spain and is divided into three different sub-regions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Oriental and Rioja Alavesa.
Different landforms and climates, as well as unique soil types and microclimates in the vineyards, contribute to the diversity of Rioja wines. The red wine produced in Rioja is famous all over the world. The most famous one is Tempranillo-based single wine or blended wine. Tempranillo, the most representative grape variety in Spain, has achieved excellent performance here. Tempranillo gives Spain's famous red wine its full backbone. The wines produced from it are full of rich red fruit flavors, with earthy and herbaceous notes. In addition, eight white grape varieties are approved for the production of Rioja white wine.
Rioja also carries the history and innovation of Spanish wine. The blend of old and new, diverse brewing styles and concepts are fully reflected here. Rioja has a very clear and strict barrel aging classification that is stipulated by Spanish law. From a traditional style, the rich oak flavor brought by barrel aging is a major feature of the Rioja production area. The wine is usually full-bodied, giving the wine the aroma of red fruits and appropriate tannins , while the old-school white wine also has a strong toasty flavor and oxidation characteristics.
In the past ten years, the winemaking changes implemented in Rioja have achieved excellent results. The new generation of growers and winemakers will focus on grape cultivation and the latest winemaking technology. At the same time, the production area has also developed a new grading system, highlighting the influence of terroir on wine.
In June 2017, the Rioja production area released the latest legal regulations , which made further innovations in the new classification based on the original aging classification system. There are classifications such as single garden, village level wine, and regional wine. The collection and special collection levels are also reviewed. There are also new changes in aging regulations. Even the brewing regulations of Rioja's high-quality sparkling wine have also undergone major new changes.
Eastern Coast Region 18 DO
with different styles. Mobile Spain map on your fingertips, we now come to the Eastern Coast Region. From Catalonia in the north to Levante in the south, they all have a warm Mediterranean climate. It contains a total of 18 DO production areas with different styles. Vineyards influenced by the Mediterranean climate have long and warm growth cycles, which are suitable for planting some heat-resistant varieties, such as Grenache and Monastrell (Monastrell), which can produce some wines with ripe fruit flavors and full-bodied and high alcohol content. Inland, high-altitude vineyards have a cooler climate, producing fresher, more structured wines.
The DOCa Priorat production area officially became the second DOCa in Spain on July 6, 2009. With the unique terroir and rich flavor of the wine in the production area, it shines on the world wine stage and becomes one of the most watched DOs in this region. In addition, CAVA, another famous DO production area in Catalonia, is famous for its sparkling wine made using the traditional secondary fermentation method, which is the same as Champagne. It is also popular for its refreshing and pleasant sparkling wine, and its unique flavor brought by using local grape varieties.
18 DO production areas include:
DOCa Priorat
DO Cava
DO Penedès
DO Montsant
DO Jumilla
DO Yecla
DO Empordà
DO Costers del Segre
DO Pla de Bages
DO Alella
DO Conca de Barberá
DO Tarragona
DO Terra Alta
DO Catalunya
DO Utiel-Requena
DO Valencia
DO Alicante
DO Bullas
Priorato production area
The vineyards of Priora are located in the inland hilly area north of Tarragona. It is a relatively small production area. The summer here is long, hot and dry, with little rain throughout the year. There are rolling hills and steep slopes in the production area. Most of the vineyards are built on steep slopes and rely on manual planting and picking. The best soil in the production area is special red slate, which provides suitable heat and moisture for the grapes and gives the wine a unique mineral flavor.
The suitable climate and terroir provide an excellent growing environment for Priorat's two late-ripening red grape varieties, old-vine Grenache and Carignan. Rare old vines are preserved here. After the 1980s, a group of winemakers with superior skills and craftsmanship came here . They rediscovered these ancient Grenache and Carignan vineyards and used them to produce world-famous wines.
The yield of old vine grapes is low, and the wine produced is a high-quality red wine with full body, rich aroma and complex taste. It is 100% single Grenache or red wine blended with Carignan. It is darker in color and has strong and tight tannins. has a rich aroma of ripe black fruits and a toasty taste from new French oak barrels, which has become the characteristic of Priorato's high-quality wine.
The topography of the 10 DO production areas in the central plateau
rapidly increases from the coast to the inland, to the Meseta Central Plateau (Meseta Central) located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula. Most of the inland areas have a hot, dry continental climate. As the international market's demand for high-quality wine grows and a new generation of winemakers pay attention to terroir, a number of boutique wineries have emerged in the local area, changing planting and brewing methods to produce high-quality wine.
The 10 DO production areas of the Central Plateau include:
DO La Mancha
DO Valdepeñas
DO Uclés
DO Ribera de Júcar
DO Manchuela
DO Almansa
DO Mondéjar
DO Méntrida
DO Vinos de Madrid
DO Ribera del Guadiana
Castile-La Mancha production area
La Mancha production area is located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula. It is a production area far away from the coastline. Its vineyard area and wine output account for about two-thirds of the entire Spain. , D.O. La Mancha is the largest legal production area in Spain and one of the largest production areas in the world. It has a typical plateau and continental climate. The extremely severe climate environment of hot summers and cold winters is just right for the growth of wine grapes.
La Mancha vineyards are mostly located in plain areas . The soil is composed of brown-red sand, clay and limestone . It can not only meet the growth of Airen, the largest local planted white grape variety, but also cultivate high-quality red grape varieties. Beginning in the 1980s, local wineries began to strive towards higher-quality brewing. The most modern wineries began to optimize planting, eliminate rural grape varieties, and focus on cultivating better grape varieties. Today, local varieties such as Tempranillo (locally known as Cencibel) and Garnacha, as well as international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah are widely planted locally.
With the rise of a new generation of winemakers, the investment in new technologies such as new fermentation and the introduction of funds, at the same time many local wineries have applied for the Vinos de Pago (single vineyard) level , all of which represent the determination of the production area to move towards a high-quality wine production area.
Other DO production areas in Spain
The southernmost tip of Spain, Andalucía (Andalucía) , also known as the "Land of Sherry", is the production area of sherry , the national wine of Spain.
This area contains a total of 7 DO production areas:
DO Jerez-Xérès-Sherry
DO Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda
DO Montilla-Moriles
DO Málaga
DO Sierras de Málaga
DO Condado de Huelva
DO Granada
Finally, we come to an island region of Spain that is very important in the history of wine (THE ISLANDS) , which contains a total of 12 DO production areas. Among them, the most prominent production areas are located on the Balearic Islands, Mallorca and Menorca, which mainly use local varieties (Manto Negro, Moll, etc.) and international grape varieties to produce a small amount of high-quality wine.
The Canary Islands also play an important role in history. As one of the few production areas in the world that has not been affected by phylloxera, has been able to retain the cultivation of non-grafted, diversified and localized varieties.
The 12 DOs in the island region include:
DO Binissalem-Mallorca
DO Pla i Llevant
DO La Palma
DO El Hierro
DO La Gomera
DO Ycoden-Daute-Isora
DO Valle de la Orotava
DO Tacoronte-Acentejo
DO Gran Canaria
DO Valle de Güimar
DO Abona
DO Lanzarote
Mountains and seas are connected, and rivers shuttle between them. The beautiful and majestic mountainous landforms divide Spain into several different climate forms. The rich soil characteristics and climate types meet the conditions for growing many varieties of wine grapes. The diversity of terroir, climate and landforms, coupled with the diverse brewing methods, are ultimately reflected in the rich range of Spanish wines.
There are more than 4,000 registered wineries in Spain. Wineries and wine styles coexist with old-school and cutting-edge styles, producing wines with different styles and unique tastes. Together with the brave and skilled bullfighters of the Iberian Peninsula, the passionate flamenco dance, and the strange and majestic Gaudi architecture , they have become Spain's lively and dazzling art, waiting for people to explore and taste.
The red wine produced in Rioja is famous all over the world. The most famous one is Tempranillo-based single wine or blended wine. Tempranillo, the most representative grape variety in Spain, has achieved excellent performance here. Tempranillo gives Spain's famous red wine its full backbone. The wines produced from it are full of rich red fruit flavors, with earthy and herbaceous notes. In addition, eight white grape varieties are approved for the production of Rioja white wine. Rioja also carries the history and innovation of Spanish wine. The blend of old and new, diverse brewing styles and concepts are fully reflected here. Rioja has a very clear and strict barrel aging classification that is stipulated by Spanish law. From a traditional style, the rich oak flavor brought by barrel aging is a major feature of the Rioja production area. The wine is usually full-bodied, giving the wine the aroma of red fruits and appropriate tannins , while the old-school white wine also has a strong toasty flavor and oxidation characteristics.
In the past ten years, the winemaking changes implemented in Rioja have achieved excellent results. The new generation of growers and winemakers will focus on grape cultivation and the latest winemaking technology. At the same time, the production area has also developed a new grading system, highlighting the influence of terroir on wine.
In June 2017, the Rioja production area released the latest legal regulations , which made further innovations in the new classification based on the original aging classification system. There are classifications such as single garden, village level wine, and regional wine. The collection and special collection levels are also reviewed. There are also new changes in aging regulations. Even the brewing regulations of Rioja's high-quality sparkling wine have also undergone major new changes.
Eastern Coast Region 18 DO
with different styles. Mobile Spain map on your fingertips, we now come to the Eastern Coast Region. From Catalonia in the north to Levante in the south, they all have a warm Mediterranean climate. It contains a total of 18 DO production areas with different styles. Vineyards influenced by the Mediterranean climate have long and warm growth cycles, which are suitable for planting some heat-resistant varieties, such as Grenache and Monastrell (Monastrell), which can produce some wines with ripe fruit flavors and full-bodied and high alcohol content. Inland, high-altitude vineyards have a cooler climate, producing fresher, more structured wines.
The DOCa Priorat production area officially became the second DOCa in Spain on July 6, 2009. With the unique terroir and rich flavor of the wine in the production area, it shines on the world wine stage and becomes one of the most watched DOs in this region. In addition, CAVA, another famous DO production area in Catalonia, is famous for its sparkling wine made using the traditional secondary fermentation method, which is the same as Champagne. It is also popular for its refreshing and pleasant sparkling wine, and its unique flavor brought by using local grape varieties.
18 DO production areas include:
DOCa Priorat
DO Cava
DO Penedès
DO Montsant
DO Jumilla
DO Yecla
DO Empordà
DO Costers del Segre
DO Pla de Bages
DO Alella
DO Conca de Barberá
DO Tarragona
DO Terra Alta
DO Catalunya
DO Utiel-Requena
DO Valencia
DO Alicante
DO Bullas
Priorato production area
The vineyards of Priora are located in the inland hilly area north of Tarragona. It is a relatively small production area. The summer here is long, hot and dry, with little rain throughout the year. There are rolling hills and steep slopes in the production area. Most of the vineyards are built on steep slopes and rely on manual planting and picking. The best soil in the production area is special red slate, which provides suitable heat and moisture for the grapes and gives the wine a unique mineral flavor.
Spain is located in the Iberian Peninsula in southwest Europe. The vast country of Spain has a long history of winemaking. It was the gathering place of various wine grapes tens of thousands of years ago. Spain is also one of the most diverse wine-producing countries in the world, with a variety of wine styles, including red wines made in traditional styles and aged in oak barrels, as well as fruity white wines made using modern methods.
As a traditional wine-making country, Spain has a complete set of wine regulations. Since its establishment in 1932, Spanish wine regulations have been advancing with the times and have been adjusted according to actual conditions to ensure that the entire system is more in line with the current market requirements for high-quality wines. Spanish wines with protected designation of origin (Denominacion de Origen, referred to as DO) are being recognized by the international market for their high quality, unique style and outstanding expression of brewing technology. The designation of origin protection system is also a guarantee for the quality and diversity of Spanish wine.
The birth and classification of the Spanish Designation of Origin System (DO)
Spanish wine regulations began with Rioja (Rioja) , and the Production Area Regulation Committee was established in 1926. In 1932, Spain established the legal production area system, demarcating 19 legal production areas (Denominacion de Origen) across the country. Each DO can establish its own regulatory committee to formulate regulations, and the wine legal production area system was established.
Spanish management regulations have been updated several times in the following decades, and was revised in 1970. includes: establishing a nationwide supervision agency, standardizing operating methods in all aspects from planting to brewing, dividing product quality levels, and integrating with the EU classification system.
In Spain, those that meet the EU PDO include high-quality protected designations of origin (Denominación de Origen Calificada, abbreviated as DOCa), protected designations of origin (Denominación de Origen, abbreviated as DO), special geographical indications protected high-quality wines (Vinos de Calidad, abbreviated as VC) and single vineyards (Vinos de Pago, abbreviated as VP); and what meets the EU geographical indication protection label PGI is Spanish regional table wine (Vino de la Tierra, abbreviated as VdlT). Except for these few, belongs to ordinary table wines without geographical indications. They are generally identified by Vino de Mesa, abbreviated VdM.
The highest grade of Spanish wine is DOCa
The highest grade of Spanish wine is the high-quality Protected Designation of Origin (Denominación de Origen Calificada, abbreviated as DOCa) regulations originated in 1988. Currently, there are only two DOCa-level production areas in Spain, namely Rioja and Priorat in Catalonia. The
regulations stipulate that in order to obtain the highest level of DOCa, must obtain the DO level ten years before applying for , and the production area must continue to maintain high-quality production and a good reputation. Compared with other DO production areas, these two DOCa have higher quality requirements, and the wines they produce can better reflect the local terroir and winemaking tradition. They are the best representatives of Spanish wine history and quality, and the average price of wine is also at the forefront of all production areas. It is reported that the Duero River production area passed the DOCa level approval in 2008, and becoming a DOCa level is just around the corner.
There are 68 production areas that have obtained the protected designation of origin (DO)
After the DOCa level, there is the protected designation of origin (Denominación de Origen, abbreviated as DO). This level is equivalent to France's AOC and Italy's DOC. There are currently 68 DO in Spain. Each DO production area needs to meet the most basic quality requirements, grape varieties and cultivation methods, and be located in a certain geographical location. As DO wine, it needs to meet more stringent standards: designated grape varieties, lower yields, more stringent aging requirements, etc., and the wine produced needs to reflect the local terroir characteristics and traditions.
Below the DO level is the VCIG level: high-quality wines protected by special geographical indications (Vinos de Calidad, abbreviated as VC). This level is the basic level of Spanish legal production area wine. A production area needs to obtain the VCIG level for 5 years before it can be eligible to apply for the DO level. Currently there are 7 VC producing areas in Spain.
The above is the historical process of the birth of the Spanish designation of origin system in the past century . Although the regulations and numbers may seem a bit boring and strict, they are a wine-producing country that has made unremitting efforts to promote the standardization and healthy development of the wine industry. It is also the greatest guarantee for Spanish wine lovers around the world.
Now, let us travel to Spain's famous production area and immerse ourselves in the region's terroir and wine stories!
The diversity of terroir and climate brings a variety of possibilities to Spanish wine.
Spain has three main climate zones. The coastal production areas in the north and west have a mild maritime climate. The Green Spain region dominated by the Atlantic system is the place with the most rainfall in Spain. The vineyards here enjoy the cool sea breeze and fog. This area contains a total of 8 DO production areas, which mainly produce red and white wines with fresh, sour and fruity aromas. The most well-known in the world is DO Rías Baixas, which was awarded DO in 1988. It is famous for its high-quality dry white wine with fresh and fruity aroma produced from the Albariño variety.
The 8 DOs of Green Spain include:
DO Chacolí de Álava - Arabako Txakolina
DO Chacolí de Bizkaia - Bizkaiko Txakolina
DO Chacolí de Getaria - Getariako Txakolina
DO Monterrei
DO Rías Baixas
DO Ribeiro
DO Ribeira Sacra
DO Valdeorras
Slightly closer to the inland is the Duero River Valley region, which contains a total of 9 DO production areas. It is influenced by the famous Duero River that flows through Spain and Portugal. The protection of the mountains and the altitude bring about a temperature difference between day and night. The unique natural conditions allow it to produce red wines with structure and rich fruit aroma. Among them, DO Ribera del Duero (DO Ribera del Duero) is famous for producing high-quality Tempranillo red wine (locally known as Tinta del País or Tinto Fino). The wine is fresh and fruity when young, and has great aging ability, and is highly praised internationally.
The 9 DOs in the Duero Valley region include:
DO Ribera del Duero
DO Rueda
DO Toro
DO Bierzo
DO Arribes
DO Tierra del Vino de Zamora
DO Arlanza
DO Cigales
DO Tierra de León
Next to the Duero Valley region is the Ebro River Valley region. Valley) , this area contains a total of 6 DO production areas. There are simultaneous Atlantic, inland and Mediterranean influences, while the Ebro River also nourishes the valley, bringing a variety of unique soils. The local area has the ability to produce various styles of wine. The red grape variety Tempranillo is the absolute protagonist of this production area, and Garnacha also performs well. The Rioja production region, which was the first to obtain DO and DOCa, is undoubtedly a high-profile production region in this region and produces a large number of high-quality Spanish wines.
The 6 DOs in the Ebro Valley region include:
DOCa Rioja
DO Navarra
DO Campo de Borja
DO Cariñena
DO Calatayud
DO Somontano
Rioja production area (DOCa Rioja)
In 1926, Rioja became the first wine region to obtain DO. It was promoted to DOCa in 1991 and has maintained a high level of production. Rioja is located in northern Spain and is divided into three different sub-regions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Oriental and Rioja Alavesa.
Different landforms and climates, as well as unique soil types and microclimates in the vineyards, contribute to the diversity of Rioja wines. The red wine produced in Rioja is famous all over the world. The most famous one is Tempranillo-based single wine or blended wine. Tempranillo, the most representative grape variety in Spain, has achieved excellent performance here. Tempranillo gives Spain's famous red wine its full backbone. The wines produced from it are full of rich red fruit flavors, with earthy and herbaceous notes. In addition, eight white grape varieties are approved for the production of Rioja white wine.
Rioja also carries the history and innovation of Spanish wine. The blend of old and new, diverse brewing styles and concepts are fully reflected here. Rioja has a very clear and strict barrel aging classification that is stipulated by Spanish law. From a traditional style, the rich oak flavor brought by barrel aging is a major feature of the Rioja production area. The wine is usually full-bodied, giving the wine the aroma of red fruits and appropriate tannins , while the old-school white wine also has a strong toasty flavor and oxidation characteristics.
In the past ten years, the winemaking changes implemented in Rioja have achieved excellent results. The new generation of growers and winemakers will focus on grape cultivation and the latest winemaking technology. At the same time, the production area has also developed a new grading system, highlighting the influence of terroir on wine.
In June 2017, the Rioja production area released the latest legal regulations , which made further innovations in the new classification based on the original aging classification system. There are classifications such as single garden, village level wine, and regional wine. The collection and special collection levels are also reviewed. There are also new changes in aging regulations. Even the brewing regulations of Rioja's high-quality sparkling wine have also undergone major new changes.
Eastern Coast Region 18 DO
with different styles. Mobile Spain map on your fingertips, we now come to the Eastern Coast Region. From Catalonia in the north to Levante in the south, they all have a warm Mediterranean climate. It contains a total of 18 DO production areas with different styles. Vineyards influenced by the Mediterranean climate have long and warm growth cycles, which are suitable for planting some heat-resistant varieties, such as Grenache and Monastrell (Monastrell), which can produce some wines with ripe fruit flavors and full-bodied and high alcohol content. Inland, high-altitude vineyards have a cooler climate, producing fresher, more structured wines.
The DOCa Priorat production area officially became the second DOCa in Spain on July 6, 2009. With the unique terroir and rich flavor of the wine in the production area, it shines on the world wine stage and becomes one of the most watched DOs in this region. In addition, CAVA, another famous DO production area in Catalonia, is famous for its sparkling wine made using the traditional secondary fermentation method, which is the same as Champagne. It is also popular for its refreshing and pleasant sparkling wine, and its unique flavor brought by using local grape varieties.
18 DO production areas include:
DOCa Priorat
DO Cava
DO Penedès
DO Montsant
DO Jumilla
DO Yecla
DO Empordà
DO Costers del Segre
DO Pla de Bages
DO Alella
DO Conca de Barberá
DO Tarragona
DO Terra Alta
DO Catalunya
DO Utiel-Requena
DO Valencia
DO Alicante
DO Bullas
Priorato production area
The vineyards of Priora are located in the inland hilly area north of Tarragona. It is a relatively small production area. The summer here is long, hot and dry, with little rain throughout the year. There are rolling hills and steep slopes in the production area. Most of the vineyards are built on steep slopes and rely on manual planting and picking. The best soil in the production area is special red slate, which provides suitable heat and moisture for the grapes and gives the wine a unique mineral flavor.
The suitable climate and terroir provide an excellent growing environment for Priorat's two late-ripening red grape varieties, old-vine Grenache and Carignan. Rare old vines are preserved here. After the 1980s, a group of winemakers with superior skills and craftsmanship came here . They rediscovered these ancient Grenache and Carignan vineyards and used them to produce world-famous wines.
The yield of old vine grapes is low, and the wine produced is a high-quality red wine with full body, rich aroma and complex taste. It is 100% single Grenache or red wine blended with Carignan. It is darker in color and has strong and tight tannins. has a rich aroma of ripe black fruits and a toasty taste from new French oak barrels, which has become the characteristic of Priorato's high-quality wine.
The topography of the 10 DO production areas in the central plateau
rapidly increases from the coast to the inland, to the Meseta Central Plateau (Meseta Central) located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula. Most of the inland areas have a hot, dry continental climate. As the international market's demand for high-quality wine grows and a new generation of winemakers pay attention to terroir, a number of boutique wineries have emerged in the local area, changing planting and brewing methods to produce high-quality wine.
The 10 DO production areas of the Central Plateau include:
DO La Mancha
DO Valdepeñas
DO Uclés
DO Ribera de Júcar
DO Manchuela
DO Almansa
DO Mondéjar
DO Méntrida
DO Vinos de Madrid
DO Ribera del Guadiana
Castile-La Mancha production area
La Mancha production area is located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula. It is a production area far away from the coastline. Its vineyard area and wine output account for about two-thirds of the entire Spain. , D.O. La Mancha is the largest legal production area in Spain and one of the largest production areas in the world. It has a typical plateau and continental climate. The extremely severe climate environment of hot summers and cold winters is just right for the growth of wine grapes.
La Mancha vineyards are mostly located in plain areas . The soil is composed of brown-red sand, clay and limestone . It can not only meet the growth of Airen, the largest local planted white grape variety, but also cultivate high-quality red grape varieties. Beginning in the 1980s, local wineries began to strive towards higher-quality brewing. The most modern wineries began to optimize planting, eliminate rural grape varieties, and focus on cultivating better grape varieties. Today, local varieties such as Tempranillo (locally known as Cencibel) and Garnacha, as well as international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah are widely planted locally.
With the rise of a new generation of winemakers, the investment in new technologies such as new fermentation and the introduction of funds, at the same time many local wineries have applied for the Vinos de Pago (single vineyard) level , all of which represent the determination of the production area to move towards a high-quality wine production area.
Other DO production areas in Spain
The southernmost tip of Spain, Andalucía (Andalucía) , also known as the "Land of Sherry", is the production area of sherry , the national wine of Spain.
This area contains a total of 7 DO production areas:
DO Jerez-Xérès-Sherry
DO Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda
DO Montilla-Moriles
DO Málaga
DO Sierras de Málaga
DO Condado de Huelva
DO Granada
Finally, we come to an island region of Spain that is very important in the history of wine (THE ISLANDS) , which contains a total of 12 DO production areas. Among them, the most prominent production areas are located on the Balearic Islands, Mallorca and Menorca, which mainly use local varieties (Manto Negro, Moll, etc.) and international grape varieties to produce a small amount of high-quality wine.
The Canary Islands also play an important role in history. As one of the few production areas in the world that has not been affected by phylloxera, has been able to retain the cultivation of non-grafted, diversified and localized varieties.
The 12 DOs in the island region include:
DO Binissalem-Mallorca
DO Pla i Llevant
DO La Palma
DO El Hierro
DO La Gomera
DO Ycoden-Daute-Isora
DO Valle de la Orotava
DO Tacoronte-Acentejo
DO Gran Canaria
DO Valle de Güimar
DO Abona
DO Lanzarote
Mountains and seas are connected, and rivers shuttle between them. The beautiful and majestic mountainous landforms divide Spain into several different climate forms. The rich soil characteristics and climate types meet the conditions for growing many varieties of wine grapes. The diversity of terroir, climate and landforms, coupled with the diverse brewing methods, are ultimately reflected in the rich range of Spanish wines.
There are more than 4,000 registered wineries in Spain. Wineries and wine styles coexist with old-school and cutting-edge styles, producing wines with different styles and unique tastes. Together with the brave and skilled bullfighters of the Iberian Peninsula, the passionate flamenco dance, and the strange and majestic Gaudi architecture , they have become Spain's lively and dazzling art, waiting for people to explore and taste.
The 12 DOs in the island region include:
DO Binissalem-Mallorca
DO Pla i Llevant
DO La Palma
DO El Hierro
DO La Gomera
DO Ycoden-Daute-Isora
DO Valle de la Orotava
DO Tacoronte-Acentejo
DO Gran Canaria
DO Valle de Güimar
DO Abona
DO Lanzarote
Mountains and seas are connected, and rivers shuttle between them. The beautiful and majestic mountainous landforms divide Spain into several different climate forms. The rich soil characteristics and climate types meet the conditions for growing many varieties of wine grapes. The diversity of terroir, climate and landforms, coupled with the diverse brewing methods, are ultimately reflected in the rich range of Spanish wines.
There are more than 4,000 registered wineries in Spain. Wineries and wine styles coexist with old-school and cutting-edge styles, producing wines with different styles and unique tastes. Together with the brave and skilled bullfighters of the Iberian Peninsula, the passionate flamenco dance, and the strange and majestic Gaudi architecture , they have become Spain's lively and dazzling art, waiting for people to explore and taste.
