📍 Castile and León

Castile and León is Spain's largest autonomous region by area, a high plateau along the Duero river in north-western Spain. Vineyards often lie at 700 to 1,000 metres, so summers are hot, nights cool and winters harsh. The region makes red, white and rosé wines.

Several famous zones lie here. Ribera del Duero gives powerful reds from Tempranillo, locally called Tinto Fino. Toro makes dense reds from a local form of Tempranillo. Rueda makes fresh whites, mainly from Verdejo. Bierzo makes reds from Mencía and whites from Godello. Cigales is known for reds and rosés.

There are also lesser-known names: Arlanza, Arribes, Valtiendas, León, Cebreros, Sierra de Salamanca (where the rare grape Rufete grows), Valles de Benavente and Tierra del Vino de Zamora. Many have recently drawn attention from enthusiasts.

The region suits anyone wanting to try rich Spanish red wine in different styles. The region's best-known name is Ribera del Duero, but the most affordable wines often come from lesser-known zones. On the label look for the name of the appellation: it hints at the style, not just “Castile and León”.