- Wine Tour Destinations
Ribera del Duero is a captivating destination for wine lovers seeking an authentic experience. Visiting Ribera del Duero with Grape Escapes offers a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of this celebrated wine region located just 90 minutes by road from Madrid. Immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage, wander through picturesque vineyards, and savour exceptional wines.
Over the last few decades, the region has become a premier source of world-class red wine. The region is characterised by its flat, rocky terrain, and its most famous vineyards can be found close to Peñafiel and Aranda de Duero where the terrain provides ideal growing conditions for the Tempranillo grape, known locally as “Tinto Fino.”
Ribera del Duero was officially designated a D.O region in 1982, by an organisation of wine growers who aspired to promote their wines. Since then, the area has been transformed through the replanting of vineyards and significant investment into modern winemaking techniques by both small, family-run wineries and large corporations.
Ribera del Duero has just over 300 vineyards occupying approximately 120 square kilometres, and is home to arguably Spain’s most prestigious and iconic winery: Vega Sicilia. The region is well known for its Romanesque architecture and stunning natural beauty and attracts lovers of history and culture from around the world. In recent years the region has also become increasingly popular as a destination for wine tourism. There is even a museum dedicated to Spanish winemaking in the impressive Moorish castle in Peñafiel.
We recommend spending two or three days in the area to fully immerse yourself in everything the region has to offer, including savouring the local cuisine. Although tapas culture is not as prolific here as in neighbouring Rioja, tapas bars, both contemporary and traditional can be found. Ribera del Duero, however, is best known for it’s hearty dishes such as stews, Iberian ham, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage). Whether you’re enjoying the speciality dish of suckling lamb or enjoying a small bite of one of the local artisanal cheeses, such as Queso de Oveja, (made from sheep’s milk), each bite is exquisite when paired with one of the region’s robust wines.
"First Class." We have had a fabulous time and can't thank you enough - the attention to my requests and the detail of the trip was great. We loved the hotel and the town - there was an added bonus for us in that the town was doing a tapas and wine festival for three days so we joined in with the fun which was brilliant and such good value - really like old Spain which we loved.
Julia- Barnet, UK
Our exclusive Rioja and Ribera del Duero Wine Tour combines two world-famous wine regions with the opportunity to stay in luxurious 5* hotels, try some delicious local cuisine and visit some of the most prestigious wineries of the area.
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