Castilla y León, a sprawling wine region in northwestern Spain, boasts a rich history of winemaking dating back to the Roman times. Renowned for its diverse range of styles, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds, Castilla y León benefits from a mosaic of sub-regions, each with its unique terroir. Tempranillo reigns supreme, particularly in the prestigious Ribera del Duero DO, while Rueda has earned acclaim for its crisp Verdejo whites. Other interesting grapes include Mencía, used to produce expressive reds. In recent years, Castilla y León has embraced modern winemaking techniques, solidifying its position as a leading Spanish wine region.
The main grape varieties grown in Castilla y León are Tempranillo, Garnacha, Albillo, and Verdejo. Tempranillo is the most widely planted grape variety in the region, and is used to produce full-bodied red wines with flavors of black fruit and spice. Garnacha is also used to produce red wines, but tends to be lighter in body and higher in acidity. Albillo and Verdejo are the main white grape varieties grown in the region, and are used to produce crisp, refreshing white wines with flavors of citrus and stone fruit.
The main grape varieties grown in Castilla y León are Tempranillo, Garnacha, Albillo, and Verdejo. Tempranillo is the most widely planted grape variety in the region, and is used to produce full-bodied red wines with flavors of black fruit and spice. Garnacha is also used to produce red wines, but tends to be lighter in body and higher in acidity. Albillo and Verdejo are the main white grape varieties grown in the region, and are used to produce crisp, refreshing white wines with flavors of citrus and stone fruit.
Castilla y León, Spain's largest autonomous community, is renowned for its Tempranillo-based wines. "Tempranillo" comes from "temprano," meaning "early," referring to the grape's early ripening. It dominates wines like Ribera del Duero and Toro.