Best Castilian-Leonese Beverage Types
Ribera del Duero is a Spanish appellation located in several provinces of Castilla and Leon, in north-central Spain. The region is best known for big and bold varietals made with Tempranillo, also known as Tinto Fino or Tinta del Pais.
The blends have to include 75% Tempranillo, while other permitted varieties include Garnacha, white Albillo, and international varieties Malbec, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Ribera del Duero wines are built to age. With time, they develop complexity and become more balanced.
Most of the wines are deeply colored, full-bodied, and well-structured with bright acidity and aromas of ripe fruit, vanilla, and spices. Aging requirements are similar to those in Rioja. Crianza is the youngest, aged for two years and 12 months in oak. Reserva labels are aged at least three years with at least 12 months in oak, and the Gran Reservas have to be aged for five years, including two years of oak aging.
This white grape variety probably originated in North Africa from where it was imported to the Iberian Peninsula, and today it is mainly known as the principal grape used in Rueda (DO), both in blends and as a varietal wine. The wines produced from Verdejo are typically light-bodied, fruit-forward, fresh, and lively, with well-balanced acidity that is accompanied by bright and herbaceous flavors of citrus, fruit, and fennel.
With age, some varieties may develop nutty almond flavors. Because of its character, Verdejo is great enjoyed on its own, but it is also a food-friendly wine, and while young Verdejo is an excellent accompaniment to grilled and fried seafood, vegetables, salads, and fresh cheese, aged varieties may match paella and heartier fish or meat dishes.
Toro is a Spanish wine region located in Castile and León, around the eponymous city in Zamora. The region mostly produces red wines from Tinta de Toro—the local variant of Tempranillo that is different from those cultivated in Rioja and Ribera del Duero.
The grape produces excellent wines that are usually full-bodied, rich, potent, and concentrated. Compared to Rioja, red wines from Toro are darker, more tannic, and typically have higher alcohol content. They easily reach 15% ABV, but ideally, they would have around 13%.
Mencía or Jaen is a grape whose origin is associated with the Iberian peninsula. In the past, it was believed that Mencía and Jaen are two separate varieties, but recent research has shown that they are genetically identical.
In Spain, the grape is mostly associated with the Bierzo appellation that is located in the province of León. While for most of its history, Mencía was used in the production of light, somewhat bland table wines, some winemakers have seen the potential to produce more concentrated and better quality varietals with a medium body and good natural acidity.
THE BEST Mencía Wine Varieties
Bruñal is a rare Spanish red grape that produces fruity, full-bodied red wines. The grape is most likely native to Arribes, Castilla y Leon, and though it is mainly used in regional red blends, some producers show its excellent varietal potential.
Despite its quality, it is still rarely planted because of low yields. Bruñal wines are cherry-colored, with a fruity aroma reminiscent of red berries. They are refreshing and bright, often with some minerality. Well-structured tannins are nicely balanced with good acidity and alcohol content.
Limonada de León is a traditional cocktail made with red wine, citrus fruit, sugar, and spices. It is traditionally enjoyed during the Holy Week (Semana Santa)—hence its alternative name: the Holy Week Lemonade. The basic recipe includes red wine, water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon, but since this is an old, traditional beverage, many variations have been created throughout the years.
Common additions often include dry fruit such as raisins or dry figs, oranges, and sometimes spirits or liqueurs. The drink is a staple during Holy Week, and it is a mandatory beverage during cheerful local festivities. Many bars and restaurants in León create their signature limonadas, while many locals also prepare and drink homemade versions of this sweet wine cocktail.
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