Arribes in Spanish means “banks of the river”, which describes perfectly this small region which was granted its Denomination of Origin status in 2007. DO Arribes is located in Arribes de Duero, a region that follows the Spanish-Portuguese border through the Spanish provinces of Salamanca and Zamora. The rivers Duero and Tormes cross the region and as a result the vine growing areas roughly divide into to two distinct types: the high, flat ground of the plateau and the precipitous sides of the river valleys. These two rivers meet and flow further west across the Spanish birder into Portugal in the region’s principle town Fermoselle.
Due to the climate and soils this region mainly produces red wines with some growers choosing to cultivate the local variety Juan García. This variety has flourished in terms of quality in recent years as a result of the modern growing and winemaking techniques being employed by the producers. However the native varietal is not the only grape to be found in these parts as other producers are producing some impressive wines from blends and single varietals using Tempranillo, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Another attraction to visit the region is the excellent accommodation being offered by the wineries to those who do pass through usually to visit the Arribes del Duero Nature Reserve.
The wines from this area are certainly worth a look as their potential is beginning to be realised.
