Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector as referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 2020/C 73/08
Date: 2020-03-06
Institutions: Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development, European Commission
Subjects: Castile-Leon, Spain, consumer information, designation of origin, labelling, product designation, red wine, rosé wine, white wine




C_2020073EN.01001601.xml










6.3.2020   


EN


Official Journal of the European Union


C 73/16






Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector as referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33
(2020/C 73/08)
This notice is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1).
COMMUNICATING THE APPROVAL OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT

Ribera del Duero


Reference number: PDO-ES-A0626-AM04


Notification date: 20 November 2019


DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Inclusion of the white wines and the term ‘clarete’ (Section 2 of the Specification and point 1.4 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Inclusion of white wines as a product covered by the PDO ‘Ribera del Duero’ and inclusion of the synonym ‘clarete’ to describe rosé wines, with the aim of improving their performance on the market.
The Regulatory Council considers that the experience in producing white wines in the area, particularly over the last 20 years and based mostly on the native Albillo Mayor variety, has attained sufficient maturity for these products to be covered by the PDO ‘Ribera del Duero’.
The wish to maintain the historical plantations of these white grape varieties in the area, together with their genetic diversity, the impact in the media and the commercial success of these wines on the market, are grounds for the Regulatory Council to draft rules to cover them, as petitioned over time by the sector.
At the present time there are at least 25 wineries already marketing this type of white wine based on the Albillo Mayor variety, generally under the PGI ‘Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León’. They have had noteworthy success (five Albillo Mayor wines have scored over 91 points on the listings of the prestigious publication The Wine Advocate).
The decision was taken to include the term ‘clarete’ to describe rosé wines following requests from operators in this regard, who want to preserve the use of a traditional word in the area that defines these wines by their colour. It does not entail any change to the conditions or production practices.
Type of amendment: normal
Both the white wines and the ‘claretes’ (which are the same type as rosé wines but have the name traditionally used in the area, which refers to their colour and is recognised in national legislation on labelling) are included in the Wines category, which remains the only category authorised in the Product Specification. This amendment does not modify, add to or delete any category of wine. It therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
2.   Description of the physico-chemical characteristics of the white wines (Section 2 of the Specification and point 1.4 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Provide a definition of the analytical characteristics that must be followed by the white wines to meet the Product Specification and thus be covered by the PDO ‘Ribera del Duero’.
The inclusion of this new type of wine requires its physico-chemical characteristics to be defined, at least in the terms laid down in Article 20 of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/34 of 17 October 2018 laying down rules for the application of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Regulation (EU) No 1306/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council.
Type of amendment: normal
This amendment adapts the physico-chemical characteristics, but does not entail a substantial change to the final product, which retains the characteristics and profile described in the link, which are a consequence of the interplay between natural and human factors. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
3.   Redefinition of the organoleptic characteristics (Section 2 of the Specification and point 1.4 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

New definition of the organoleptic parameters to be met by the various categories of wine in order to be covered by the PDO ‘Ribera del Duero’ to bring these better into line with current sensory analysis techniques.
Inclusion of the organoleptic characteristics to be met by white wines covered by the PDO.
The experience gained by the Regulatory Council under the project funded by the EAFRD on the ‘Development of analytical tools for the standardisation of sensory analysis carried out by the tasting committees of the PDOs of Castile and Leon’ prompted the drafting of a more precise definition of the different product types and the inclusion of a number of introductory definitions to explain and give greater clarity to interpreting the wines. This amendment responds in particular to efforts to describe better the characteristics to be met by each type of wine, and also to help apply a system of sensory analysis – currently under development – that meets standard UNE-EN ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
To describe the white wines, use has been made of data from the above report (in which some pertinent references were included) and also the descriptions gathered over the years for this type of wine, for which there is a wealth of experience in the area, including at the Regulatory Council’s Experimentation and Testing Department.
This does not change the product characteristics, but rather gives a more detailed description in line with new techniques of sensory analysis.
Type of amendment: normal
This amendment adapts the organoleptic characteristics, but does not entail a substantial change to the protected product, which retains the characteristics and profile described in the link, which are a consequence of the interplay between natural and human factors. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
4.   Revision of growing practices (Section 3(a) of the Specification and point 1.5.1 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Definition of the minimum natural strength required of grapes of the Albillo Mayor variety used to produce protected wines.
Given the importance of freshness for this type of wine, and taking into account both the experience and the reports on this variety made by the Instituto Tecnológico Agrario Castilla y León [Castile and Leon Institute of Agricultural Technology, ITACyL] during the clonal selection made for Albillo Mayor, the decision was taken to set the minimum threshold for compliance with this parameter to 17,9 ° Brix (10,5 ° Beaumé). The trend on the market towards freshness in wines, for this type of white wine, and the marked climate differences between vintages, also impacted on this decision.
It was further decided to express the parameters in degrees Brix because this is advantageous when it comes to establishing the harvest control tasks.
Type of amendment: normal
This amendment only adapts the initial conditions of the raw material. It does not entail a substantial change to the protected product, which retains the characteristics and profile described in the link, which are a consequence of the interplay between natural and human factors. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
5.   Amendment To The Conditions Of Production: Extraction Yield (Section 3(b) of the Specification and point 1.5.1 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Increase in the extraction yield from 70 litres for every 100 kg of grapes to 72 litres for every 100 kg of grapes.
In recent years, new technologies in wineries, refrigeration and the use of vacuum filters for the classification of must, have led to an increased use of grape juice without causing significant pressure that would impact negatively on quality. The outcome is a higher yield and the same level of quality required by the Product Specification.
Type of amendment: normal
This amendment does not entail a substantial change to the protected product, which retains the characteristics and profile described in the link, which are a consequence of the interplay between natural and human factors. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
6.   Ageing conditions and periods (Section 3(b) of the Specification and point 1.5.1 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Rules on ageing conditions and periods are moved from section 8 to section 3, as this is thought more appropriate.
The rules on ageing conditions and periods have not been amended, it is just that their position has been changed from point 8(b)(3), Rules on labelling, where they were included as rules on the use of traditional terms and optional labelling, to section 3(b)(3), Specific oenological practices, Ageing conditions.
Advantage was taken of this opportunity to include a clarification on the calculation of ageing periods so as to provide that the start of the calculation of such periods laid down in this section may not, at any event, pre-date 1 October of the year of the harvest. Furthermore, the calculation of the minimum ageing period required for the option of using the traditional terms ‘RESERVA’ and ‘GRAN RESERVA’ shall start when the wine batch is poured into the oak barrels.
In addition, there is a rule on the maximum capacity of the barrels considered appropriate for the quality of the final product (330 for traditional terms and 600 for ‘Roble/Barrica’).
Type of amendment: normal
This amendment is only a change of paragraph and a clarification. This does not entail a substantial change to the protected product, which retains the characteristics and profile described in the link, which are a consequence of the interplay between natural and human factors. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
7.   Amendment to restrictions on wine-making: varietal component of the red wines (Section 3(c) of the Specification and point 1.5.1 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

A new definition of the composition of varieties for red wines covered by the PDO ‘Ribera del Duero’ by increasing the possible use of the Red Grenache variety up to 25 % given that this is a variety that is increasingly prized on the market.
The decision was taken to set the possible percentage up to which the Red Grenache authorised variety may be used to that permitted for the other authorised red varieties. This amendment has been included at the request of the sector, which finds that the nuances of the variety are beneficial. Its use, however, is unaffected, with a minimum of 75 % Tempranillo or Tinto Fino or Tinta del País maintained. There are presently a number of operators who are increasingly using this variety. They point to the high scores obtained from wine experts for these wines and even for those which do not qualify for protection due to the higher quantities of this variety in their composition. Equally, Red Grenache has traditionally been a variety used extensively in the area’s red wines. Its historical character and its relationship with the region have thus been demonstrated.
Also, the parcels of Red Grenache present in the area represent a genuine source of genotypic variability as they have been obtained by means of massal selection over generations and have adapted perfectly to the territory in this way. It is the case that the Regulatory Council wishes to maintain and boost this value in the area, particularly with a view to equipping itself with tools to combat changing situations, especially global warming.
Finally, the current market demand for wines with greater freshness demonstrates the usefulness of this variety when used to a greater extent, since it is the most likely to produce wines with these characteristics.
Type of amendment: normal
This amendment does not entail a substantial change to the protected product, which retains the characteristics and profile described in the link, which are a consequence of the interplay between natural and human factors. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
8.   Amendment to restrictions on wine-making: varietal component of the white wines (Section 3(c) of the Specification and point 1.5.1 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Setting the percentages of the varieties to be met by protected white wines. This particularly concerns Albillo Mayor, the main variety.
The white wines produced by the registered operators, which are increasingly present on the market but which are not covered by the Designation of Origin, have a high proportion of the native Albillo Mayor variety. Setting the level at 75 % as the main variety would be a satisfactory way of reflecting this, using the same argument as that used for the red wines in the area, where the minimum percentage of the Tempranillo variety is also set at 75 %.
At any event, the first transitional provision of the applicable Regulation on the Ribera del Duero Designation of Origin and on its Regulatory Council states:
One. - In accordance with the third transitional provision of the Order of 21 July 1982, the Regulatory Council may authorise the production of protected wines with grapes from vineyards in the area of production in which there is a mixture of varieties, provided that the varieties authorised by this Regulation are those which predominate.
Secondly, thought has to be given to future modifications of the Specification to include new wine types. For this reason it is appropriate to ensure the typical qualities of the native variety, and also to have room for manoeuvre for the inclusion of other traditional varieties in the wines, provided that technical studies in the future warrant this.
It should be added in this connection that the wines being produced that are based on the Albillo Mayor variety are positioned on the market as quality niche wines, and in general terms fetch high prices for wines of this category, which make them high-end white wines.
Type of amendment: normal
It has been justified above that the inclusion of white wines is not an amendment in EU terms. Once these wines have been included, rules on their production and restrictions to maintain the core characteristics of the area’s wines will be laid down. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
9.   Revision of the geographical area (Section 4 of the Specification and point 1.6 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Review of the geographical area.
The defined area has not been changed. The only updates concern the names of the places which comprise it, since following the introduction of the Designation of Origin there have been changes to the boundaries of municipalities and local authorities.
Type of amendment: normal
The area has not been changed, merely the wording of the paragraph.
10.   Inclusion of a ceiling for yields per hectare of albillo mayor (Section 5 of the Specification and point 1.5.2 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Description and reasons: Inclusion of the maximum allowed production per hectare for the Albillo Mayor variety, which is set at 9 500 kg/ha.
Although the productivity of varieties may vary in Ribera del Duero, studies carried out by ITACyL during the selection of clones of the Albillo Mayor variety indicate that the figure of 9 500 kilograms per hectare is a reasonable figure for the production of this variety, and it follows that the Product Specification includes this in our area.
Experience also shows that the figure furnished by ITACyL is appropriate since it is usually necessary to cut off a large number of bunches under the current ceiling limiting production since, as regards the wines currently covered, these may only be used to make reds and rosés.
This ceiling is higher than that which had previously been set and is a result of the inclusion of white wines based on this variety in the Product Specification. For these, what is sought is a marked freshness, but the previous ceiling limiting production for this variety makes it more difficult to achieve this.
Type of amendment: normal
The Albillo Mayor variety used in particular for the production of white wines requires a maximum yield per hectare to be set. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
11.   Inclusion of albillo mayor as a main variety (Section 6 of the Specification and point 1.7 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Description and reasons: The Albillo Mayor variety is considered the main variety as it has always been the white variety par excellence in the area.
The inclusion of white wines in the Specification must be linked to the way in which Albillo Mayor acts as a cornerstone. This variety must therefore be regarded as a primary variety rather than only being referred to as an authorised variety.
There are a number of reasons underpinning the need for the main variety to be Albillo Mayor for the production of white wines in Ribera del Duero:






—


Firstly, it is the only white variety authorised in the area.










—


Secondly, it is the principal variety of the white wines marketed by the registered wineries and whose success on the market and among wine critics is boosting interest.










—


Thirdly, it is the most traditional and most distinctive variety grown in the protected area. The characteristics of the white wines are thus strongly linked to this variety, which must therefore be recognised as the main variety for producing white wines in Ribera del Duero.




In the light of this situation, the most advisable option to include the area’s white wines would appear to be to establish Albillo Mayor as the main variety in order to ensure that wines in the area retain their traditional characteristics.
From an historical standpoint, the Albillo Mayor variety has always coexisted with the Tempranillo variety in vineyards in the region. Indeed, both varieties have defined the character of the wines of Ribera del Duero.
Type of amendment: normal
The Albillo Mayor variety used in particular for the production of white wines has always been authorised and is the white variety par excellence in the area. This is not a change, merely a recognition of the above. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
12.   Inclusion of an exception for historic minority varieties (Section 6 of the Specification)


Description and reasons

Inclusion of grapes from historical vineyards as part of the wines covered.
The use of certain highly minority varieties, mixed in with main varieties, has been the tradition for very many years, including in the period since the introduction of the Designation of Origin for the area in the case of rosé/‘clarete’ wines (which was part of the specific rules, pre-dating the drafting of the Specification).
The parcels of the various historical varieties present in the area also represent a significant source of genetic variability as they have been obtained by means of massal selection over generations and have adapted adequately to the territory in this way. It is also the case that the Regulatory Council wishes to maintain and boost this traditional value in the area, particularly with a view to equipping itself with tools to combat changing situations, especially global warming.
Meanwhile, the market is calling for wines with a greater freshness and a range of nuances in their complexity. This points to the usefulness of these varieties to a greater extent, which has been a request frequently made by operators.
Type of amendment: normal
This amendment does not imply a substantial change to the product characteristics, which retain the distinguishing features explained in the link. The idea here is to draw together traditional practices and the possibilities offered by varieties introduced to the area, with new wine-making trends, aiming for a product of the highest quality that meets consumers’ current tastes. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
13.   Updating the wording of the link (Section 7 of the Specification and point 1.8 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Minimal changes to the wording of the link to clarify some concepts and justify the proposed changes.
The proposed amendments to the Specification for the PDO ‘RIBERA DEL DUERO’ do not imply a substantial change to the link nor do they jeopardise it. However, it has been necessary to revise it in order to clarify a number of concepts, particularly to highlight that the amendments in question are justified and do not break the causal link.
Type of amendment: normal
This is not a substantial change, merely a more appropriate wording. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
14.   Amendment to section 8 further applicable requirements (Section 8 of the Specification and point 1.9 of the Single Document)


Description and reasons

Changes to section 8, Other applicable requirements; these update the legal framework and clarify certain elements, such as the obligation of inclusion in registers, exceptions to how yield is applied, justification for bottling at origin and indications on labelling. The possibility of using place names as smaller geographical locations is also introduced here.
This paragraph has actually been revised in full in order to clarify some aspects that were not sufficiently clear. The wording is now more in line with the current rules.
The option of indicating the name of a smaller geographical location means that it is possible to include the name of municipalities and local authorities (settlements) in the geographical area. This is a response to a request from the sector, given that these days consumers place an increasingly important value on knowing the provenance of a product.
The boundaries of the place names are precise as they are administrative divisions.
Type of amendment: normal
The proposed changes to this paragraph do not entail any change in the name to be protected nor any new restrictions on marketing. This amendment therefore does not fall into either of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
15.   Update to point 9(b) control of the specification: monitoring tasks (Section 9(b) of the Specification)


Description and reasons

Description and reasons: Update to the paragraph on monitoring tasks.
The certification process for standard UNE-EN-ISO 17065, which the Regulatory Council is involved in, requires a revision of this paragraph to make it compatible with the principles laid down in the standard.
Type of amendment: normal
This amendment does not fall into any of the categories provided for in Article 14(1) of Regulation (EU) 2019/33.
SINGLE DOCUMENT
1.   Name of the product

Ribera del Duero
2.   Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected Designation of Origin
3.   Categories of grapevine product







1.


Wine




4.   Description of the wine(s)

‘VINO TINTO JOVEN’, ‘JOVEN ROBLE’
‘JOVEN’ (no ageing or with ageing and/or cask fermentation of less than three months).
Appearance: clear, with at least a medium colour intensity and tones ranging from purple-red to violet red.
Aroma: presence of red and/or fresh black fruit aromas to a medium degree.
Taste: balanced and fresh as a result of the acid component, and light or medium-bodied. A short finish as a minimum.
‘JOVEN ROBLE’ (with ageing and/or cask fermentation of more than three months)
Appearance: clear, with at least a medium colour intensity and tones ranging from purple-red to violet red.
Aroma: presence of red and/or fresh black fruit aromas together with aromas from oak wood ageing.
Taste: balanced and fresh as a result of the acid component, and at least medium-bodied. A short finish as a minimum.
In any case, the physico-chemical parameters laid down in this paragraph shall comply with the limits laid down in EU rules.






General analytical characteristics




Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)


 




Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)


11,5




Minimum total acidity


4 grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid




Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) (*1)



0,833




Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)


150




‘CRIANZA’
Appearance: clear, with at least a medium colour intensity and tones ranging from garnet-red to violet red. No carbon dioxide.
Aroma: presence of red and/or fresh black fruit aromas together with aromas from oak wood ageing, to at least a medium degree.
Taste: balanced, with sufficient acid freshness and a medium to full body and a medium to long finish.
In any case, the physico-chemical parameters laid down in this paragraph shall comply with the limits laid down in EU rules.






General analytical characteristics




Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)


 




Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)


11 ,5




Minimum total acidity


4 in milliequivalents per litre




Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) (*2)



0,833




Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)


150




RED ‘RESERVA’ AND ‘GRAN RESERVA’, AND OTHER RED WINES OVER TWO YEARS OF AGE
‘RESERVA’ AND ‘GRAN RESERVA’
Appearance: clean or slightly cloudy, with at least a medium colour intensity and tones ranging from brick red to violet red. No carbon dioxide.
Aroma: aromas from ageing of oak wood to a medium degree, with the possible presence of fruit compotes but no fresh fruits.
Taste: balanced, with sufficient acidity and a medium to full body and a medium to long finish.
OTHER WINES AGED ABOVE TWO YEARS (with ageing or cask fermentation of more than three months)
Appearance: clean or slightly cloudy, with at least a medium colour intensity and tones ranging from brick red to violet red.
Aroma: presence of aromas from oak wood ageing.
Taste: balanced, with sufficient acidity and a medium to full body and a medium to long finish.
In any case, the physico-chemical parameters laid down in this paragraph shall comply with the limits laid down in EU rules.






General analytical characteristics




Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)


 




Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)


11,5




Minimum total acidity


4 grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid




Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) (*3)



0,833




Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)


150




ROSÉ/‘CLARETE’

No ageing:

Appearance: Clear, with a tone between onion skin and raspberry pink, with the possibility of some grey tones in the bottom of the bottle.
Aroma: presence of aromas of red fruits and/or other fruits.
Taste: balanced and fresh with average or high acidity and a light or medium body.

With ageing:

Appearance: Clear, with a tone between onion skin and raspberry pink, with the possibility of some grey tones in the bottom of the bottle.
Aroma: presence of aromas of fresh red fruit or red fruit in a compote and/or other fruits, together with aromas from oak wood ageing. The presence of fruit is optional in the case of ‘Reserva’ and ‘Gran Reserva’ wines.
Taste: balanced and fresh with average or high acidity and a light or medium body.
In any case, the physico-chemical parameters laid down in this paragraph shall comply with the limits laid down in EU rules.






General analytical characteristics




Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)


 




Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)


11




Minimum total acidity


4,3 grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid




Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) (*4)



0,833




Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)


180




WHITES

No ageing:

Appearance: clear and straw yellow of varying intensity.
Aroma: presence of aromas of ‘other fruits’. Plant notes may be apparent.
Taste: balanced and fresh with average or high acidity and a light or medium body.

With ageing:

Appearance: clean with a tone between straw yellow and golden yellow. In wines with the traditional terms ‘Crianza’, ‘Reserva’ and ‘Gran Reserva’, an old gold yellow tone is permitted.
Aroma: presence of aromas of ‘other fruits’, which may be fresh or as a compote, together with aromas from oak wood ageing. The presence of fruit is optional in the case of ‘Reserva’ and ‘Gran Reserva’ wines.
Taste: balanced and fresh with average or high acidity and a light or medium body.
Maximum volatile acidity:






 


0,65 g/l for unfermented and non-barrel aged wines (10,83 milliequivalents per litre)










 


0,8 g/l for unfermented and non-barrel aged wines (13,33 milliequivalents per litre)










General analytical characteristics




Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)


 




Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)


11




Minimum total acidity


4,5 grams per litre expressed as tartaric acid




Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)


10,83




Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)


180




5.   Wine-making practices

a.   Essential oenological practices

Growing practices
To be considered vineyard parcels for the production of grapes under the PDO ‘Ribera del Duero’, parcels must be at least in their third growing cycle since planting.
Growing practices
The minimum density for new plants will be 2 000 vines per hectare.
Specific oenological practice
19,1 ° Brix (11 ° Beaumé) for the red varieties and 17,9 ° Brix (10,5 ° Beaumé) for the white varieties.
Specific oenological practice
No more than 72 litres of wine or must for every 100 kg of harvested grapes.
Ageing conditions
Specific oenological practice
‘CRIANZA’: red wines with a minimum ageing period of 24 months, at least twelve months of which must be spent in oak barrels. Rosé/‘clarete’ and white wines with a minimum ageing period of 18 months, at least six months of which must be spent in oak barrels.
‘RESERVA’: red wines with a minimum ageing period of 36 months, at least twelve months of which must be spent in oak barrels, with the rest of the period spent in the bottle. Rosé/‘clarete’ and white wines with a minimum ageing period of 24 months, at least six months of which must be spent in oak barrels, with the rest of the period spent in the bottle.
‘GRAN RESERVA’: red wines with a minimum ageing period of 60 months, at least 24 months of which must be spent in oak barrels, with the rest of the period spent in the bottle. Rosé/‘clarete’ and white wines must have a minimum ageing period of 48 months, at least six months of which must be spent in oak barrels, with the rest of the period spent in the bottle.
Ageing conditions
Specific oenological practice
Term ‘ROBLE/BARRICA’
Red, rosé/‘clarete’ and white wines which must have been aged in a barrel for a period of at least three months.
Ageing conditions
Specific oenological practice
For ‘Crianza’, ‘Reserva’ and ‘Gran Reserva’ wines, oak barrels with a maximum 330 litres capacity.
For ‘Roble/Barrica’ wines, maximum 600 litres.
Relevant restriction on making the wines
Wines covered by the PDO ‘RIBERA DEL DUERO’ must respect the following proportions of varieties per wine type in their production:
Red wines: shall contain a minimum of 95 per 100 grapes of red grape varieties authorised under this Product Specification. The portion of the varieties Tempranillo, Tinto Fino, or Tinta del País may not be less than 75 %.
Rosé/‘clarete’ wines: these must be made with at least 50 % of the red varieties authorised in this Specification.
White wines: these must be made with a minimum of 75 % of the Albillo Mayor variety.
b.   Maximum yields

RED VARIETIES
7 000 kilograms of grapes per hectare
RED VARIETIES
50,4 hectolitres per hectare
WHITE VARIETIES
9 500 kilograms of grapes per hectare
WHITE VARIETIES
68,4 hectolitres per hectare
6.   Demarcated geographical area

PROVINCE OF BURGOS: ADRADA DE HAZA, ANGUIX, ARANDA DE DUERO (LA AGUILERA y SINOVAS), BAÑOS DE VALDEARADOS, BERLANGAS DE ROA, CALERUEGA, CAMPILLO DE ARANDA, CASTRILLO DE LA VEGA, LA CUEVA DE ROA, FRESNILLO DE LAS DUEÑAS, FUENTECEN, FUENTELCESPED, FUENTELISENDO, FUENTEMOLINOS, FUENTENEBRO, FUENTESPINA, GUMIEL DE IZÁN, GUMIEL DE MERCADO, HAZA, HONTANGAS, HONTORIA DE VALDEARADOS, LA HORRA, HOYALES DE ROA, MAMBRILLA DE CASTREJÓN, MILAGROS, MORADILLO DE ROA, NAVA DE ROA, OLMEDILLO DE ROA, PARDILLA, PEDROSA DE DUERO (BOADA DE ROA, GUZMÁN, QUINTANAMANVIRGO y VALCABADO DE ROA), PEÑARANDA DE DUERO (CASANOVA), QUEMADA, QUINTANA DEL PIDIO, ROA, SAN JUAN DEL MONTE, SAN MARTÍN DE RUBIALES, SANTA CRUZ DE LA SALCEDA, LA SEQUERA DE HAZA, SOTILLO DE LA RIBERA (PINILLOS DE ESGUEVA), TERRADILLOS DE ESGUEVA, TORREGALINDO, TÓRTOLES DE ESGUEVA (VILLOVELA DE ESGUEVA), TUBILLA DEL LAGO, VADOCONDES, VALDEANDE, VALDEZATE, LA VID Y BARRIOS (GUMA y ZUZONES), VILLAESCUSA DE ROA, VILLALBA DE DUERO, VILLALBILLA DE GUMIEL, VILLANUEVA DE GUMIEL, VILLATUELDA and ZAZUAR.
PROVINCE OF SEGOVIA: ALDEHORNO, HONRUBIA DE LA CUESTA, MONTEJO DE LA VEGA DE LA SERREZUELA and VILLAVERDE DE MONTEJO (VILLALVILLA DE MONTEJO).
PROVINCE OF SORIA: ALCUBILLA DE AVELLANEDA (ALCOBA DE LA TORRE y ZAYAS DE BÁSCONES), (ALCUBILLA DEL MARQUÉS), CASTILLEJO DE ROBLEDO, LANGA DE DUERO (ALCOZAR, BOCIGAS DE PERALES, VALDANZO, VALDANZUELO y ZAYAS DE TORRE), MIÑO DE SAN ESTEBAN y SAN ESTEBAN DE GORMAZ (ALDEA DE SAN ESTEBAN, ATAUTA, INES, MATANZA DE SORIA, OLMILLOS, PEDRAJA DE SAN ESTEBAN, PEÑALBA DE SAN ESTEBAN, QUINTANILLA DE TRES BARRIOS, REJAS DE SAN ESTEBAN, SOTO DE SAN ESTEBAN, VELILLA DE SAN ESTEBAN and VILLÁLVARO).
PROVINCE OF VALLADOLID: BOCOS DE DUERO, CANALEJAS DE PEÑAFIEL, CASTRILLO DE DUERO, CURIEL DE DUERO, FOMPEDRAZA, MANZANILLO, OLIVARES DE DUERO, OLMOS DE PEÑAFIEL, PEÑAFIEL (ALDEAYUSO, MÉLIDA y PADILLA DE DUERO), PESQUERA DE DUERO, PIÑEL DE ABAJO, PIÑEL DE ARRIBA, QUINTANILLA DE ARRIBA, QUINTANILLA DE ONÉSIMO, RÁBANO, ROTURAS, TORRE DE PEÑAFIEL (MOLPECERES), VALBUENA DE DUERO (SAN BERNARDO) and VALDEARCOS DE LA VEGA.
7.   Main wine grape variety(ies)

TEMPRANILLO - TINTA DEL PAIS
TEMPRANILLO - TINTO FINO
ALBILLO MAYOR
8.   Description of the link(s)









1.


The terroir and the climate conditions of the geographical area defined in point 5 give the wines of the area their own personality. Thus the synonymities present in the area in terms of the main varieties demonstrate that the grapes grown in the area have certain distinguishing aspects providing these very synonymities.
This distinguishing characteristic finds its expression in the balanced natural acidity of the wines. In the case of the reds, another distinguishing factor is the high phenol content, in which bluish tones from anthocyanins and vitisins are notable, as is tannin of high polymeric quality.












2.


Particularly due to the high average elevation of the area, the climate exerts a marked influence on the grapes. Ultimately, though, it is the slow ripening described above, together with the wide thermal difference between day and night, that triggers an outstanding growth of useful compounds during the day, and lessens the metabolic combustion of these compounds at night. The long ripening also sweetens the tannin naturally.












3.


As a consequence, the production area covered by the PDO ‘RIBERA DEL DUERO’ is suitable for obtaining quality wines provided that a ceiling is placed on volumes in vineyards and that late varieties are not used. The area receives a lot of sunshine – above 2 400 hours of sun per year – and has heat in the summer and during growth and ripening, which are required for good polyphenol content.
This is certainly an area that is only just suitable for producing quality wines where adaptations need to be made to planting sites, varieties, plant vigour, growing practices, etc.












4.


The natural conditions in the production area, which are linked to the terrain, climate and soil types, allow for optimal development of vineyards that have adapted specifically to Ribera del Duero over the years.
On top of the particular conditions in the area described above are the characteristics specific to the development of the Tinto Fino variety in this area, which gives the wines their unique personality. The variety has adapted in such a way as to make it native, giving the raw materials special conditions for the production of fine wines that keep well, shown over the centuries as well as in the way the protected wines are marketed today, and which are favourites of consumers.
The Albillo Mayor variety, meanwhile, may be considered the area’s main native white variety, since historically it is the most widely planted in the region. Also, white wines in the area have traditionally always been produced based on this variety.




9.   Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

Bottling within the demarcated area
Legal framework:
In national legislation
Type of further condition:
Packaging within the demarcated geographical area
Description of the condition
The wine-making process includes bottling and subsequent ageing of the wines, and thus the organoleptic and physico-chemical characteristics described in this Specification can only be guaranteed if all of the wine handling operations take place in the area of production. The bottling of wines covered by the PDO ‘Ribera del Duero’ is one of the factors critical to attaining the characteristics set out in the Specification. As a consequence, and with a view to ensuring quality and providing a guarantee as to origin and control, this will be done in wineries located in registered bottling plants in the production area.
Labelling requirements
Legal framework:
EU law
Type of further condition:
Addition provisions relating to labelling
Description of the condition
All protected wines must contain mention of the geographical designation ‘Ribera del Duero’ on the label.
The traditional term replacing the PDO is ‘Designation of Origin’ (DO).
Labelling requirements
Legal framework:
By a body managing the PDOs/PGIs where this is provided for by the Member States.
Type of further condition:
Addition provisions relating to labelling
Description of the condition
The protected wines may use the traditional terms ‘CRIANZA’, ‘RESERVA’ and ‘GRAN RESERVA’ provided that they meet the ageing conditions laid down in the Specification (section 3(b)(2)).
The protected wines may use the terms ‘ROBLE/BARRICA’ provided that they meet the ageing conditions laid down in the Specification (section 3(b)(2)).
Labelling requirements
Legal framework:
By a body managing the PDOs/PGIs where this is provided for by the Member States.
Type of further condition:
Addition provisions relating to labelling
Description of the condition
The wines protected by the PDO ‘RIBERA DEL DUERO’ may use as an optional designation the geographical name of any of the smaller geographical locations (settlements) that are listed in point 5 of this document, provided that 85 % of the grapes used to make the wine come from parcels located in the indicated smaller geographical location.

Link to the product specification

www.itacyl.es/documents/20143/342640/Ppta+Mod+PCC+DO+RIBERA+Rev+3.docx/77b3b8ce-6ae7-0506-4314-1a47654af80a


(1)  OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2.

(*1)  0,833 milliequivalents per litre for each degree of alcoholic strength for wines aged up to one year. Wines aged more than one year shall not exceed the ceiling calculated as follows: 1 g/l up to 10 % of alcohol, increasing by 0,06 g/l for each degree of alcoholic strength in excess of 10 %.

(*2)  0,833 milliequivalents per litre for each degree of alcoholic strength for wines aged up to one year. Wines aged more than one year shall not exceed the ceiling calculated as follows: 1 g/l up to 10 % of alcohol, increasing by 0,06 g/l for each degree of alcoholic strength in excess of 10 %.

(*3)  0,833 milliequivalents per litre for each degree of alcoholic strength for wines aged up to one year. Wines aged more than one year shall not exceed the ceiling calculated as follows: 1 g/l up to 10 % of alcohol, increasing by 0,06 g/l for each degree of alcoholic strength in excess of 10 %.

(*4)  0,833 milliequivalents per litre for each degree of alcoholic strength for wines aged up to one year. Wines aged more than one year shall not exceed the ceiling calculated as follows: 1 g/l up to 10 % of alcohol, increasing by 0,06 g/l for each degree of alcoholic strength in excess of 10 %.