In the world of wine, Ribera del Duero is known for its excellent red wines, especially those made from the Tempranillo grape. However, for years it was not possible to produce white wine within the Denominación de Origen (DO) Ribera del Duero. This changed in 2019, when the green light was finally given for white wine production in the region. The most important grape variety for these white wines is the albillo mayor, a local white grape variety that can also be used in the region's red wines.
Albillo Mayor: The White Pride of Ribera del Duero
Albillo mayor is not new to the wine world, but its potential for high-quality white wine in Ribera del Duero has only recently been recognized. This local grape variety, which also plays a role in the production of the region's red wines, is now central to white wine production in Ribera del Duero. With unique characteristics that contribute to both the complexity and freshness of wine, Albillo Mayor has quickly become the most important white grape variety in the region.
Viñas del Jaros: Pioneer in White
Viñas del Jaro is one of the wineries that has taken the lead in discovering the potential of Albillo Mayor for the production of white Ribera del Duero wines. They produce a 100% Albillo Mayor wood-aged wine, sourced from grapes grown on an area of 1.6 hectares. These vineyards are located on sandy and clay soils and are characterized by low production, which contributes to the concentration of flavors in the grapes.
- Ribera del Duero, opening the door for further innovation and exploration in white wine..-
After harvest, the Albillo Mayor grapes are pressed, after which alcoholic fermentation takes place in 300-liter French oak barrels. This approach, which combines traditional with modern winemaking, creates a unique character in the wine. The wine is then aged in oak for 11 months, with periodic battonages to enrich the wine with greater complexity and texture. This wood aging adds subtle notes of wood and vanilla, which blend beautifully with the natural freshness and fruitiness of the Albillo grape.
-With unique characteristics that contribute to both the complexity and freshness of wine, Albillo Mayor has quickly become the most important white grape variety in the region.-
Viñas del Jaros white wine is an example of how wood aging, when carefully applied, can enhance the intrinsic qualities of the Albillo Mayor grape. The subtle wood and vanilla notes form a harmonious blend with the natural freshness and fruitiness of the grape, resulting in a wine that is both complex and accessible. It is a wine that fully embodies the potential of Albillo Mayor in Ribera del Duero and marks an interesting new direction for the region.
The introduction of white wine within the DO Ribera del Duero marks an exciting new chapter for the region. With Albillo Mayor at the heart of this development, wineries such as Viñas del Jaros demonstrate the versatility and potential of this local grape variety. Their wood-aged Albillo Mayor is a testament to the possibilities yet undiscovered in Ribera del Duero, opening the door for further innovation and exploration in white wine. It's an exciting time for lovers of both white and red wine, as Ribera del Duero continues to evolve and surprise.Cheers to the pioneering spirit of Ribera del Duero!
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