Ribera del Duero is one of the most prestigious wine regions, its name conjures up images of vast golden vineyards and rolling hills, but there is one time of year in particular that takes on special importance, the grape harvest.
The harvest is a crucial event that marks the beginning of the transformation of grapes into exceptional wines, and its importance goes far beyond the harvesting of ripe fruits.
In Ribera del Duero it usually takes place between the months of September and October, although the exact dates may vary depending on the climatic conditions of each year. This period represents the culmination of a vine growing cycle that has lasted all year.
The importance of this moment lies in several key factors that affect the quality and character of Ribera del Duero wines. First of all, the harvest is the moment in which the level of maturity of the grapes is determined. It is when the exact moment is chosen in which the grapes reach their optimal point of phenolic maturity and balance between sugars and acidity. This timing may vary depending on the grape variety and weather conditions of the particular year. A premature harvest can result in acidic and poorly balanced wines, while a late harvest can produce wines with excess sugar and lack of acidity.
Furthermore, the grape harvest is a period of great activity in the Ribera del Duero. The vineyards come to life with the arrival of workers who walk the rows of vines, carefully selecting and cutting the bunches of grapes. Meticulous attention to the harvest is a tradition rooted in the Ribera del Duero and a testament to the region’s commitment to oenological excellence.
Another important aspect of the grape harvest in Ribera del Duero is the festive atmosphere that surrounds it. As the grapes are harvested and transported to the wineries, numerous festivals and events are celebrated in the region. Music, food and wine flow in abundance, and Ribera del Duero residents and visitors gather to celebrate the harvest. These festivities are not only a way to give thanks for the fruits of hard work, but also an opportunity to share the culture and passion for wine that defines this region.
Once the grapes are harvested, the winemaking process begins in the wineries. In Ribera del Duero, this process is carried out with great precision and care, as it seeks to preserve the unique characteristics of each vineyard plot and grape variety. The harvest is the starting point for the creation of the region’s iconic red wines.
At Bodegas Federico our vineyards are the absolute protagonists, pampered throughout the year to ensure that the vines reach their maximum potential and extract the highest quality of their grapes during the harvest, which is reflected in the production of each of our wines: Red Federico Roble, Tinto Federico Crianza, Tinto Federico Reserva and Tinto Federico Gran Reserva.
