This area lies in the north west of Spain and suffers such extremes of hot and cold climate that little wine is made except along the Duero basin. This autonomous region encompasses 5 demarcated wine regions.

Rueda is renowned for its fresh, attractive whites made from Verdejo, Viura and increasingly from Sauvignon Blanc.

Ribera del Duero was given DO status in 1982 and produces some of the best reds outside Rioja. It is a fast growing region where innovation and technology has been welcomed with open arms.

Toro produces muscular, alcoholic reds similar to Priorato – highly prized and increasingly well-made. Cigales produces some excellent roses and light reds, although most is consumed locally.

Finally Bierzo produces some wonderful fragrant, juicy reds and stunning roses. All in all an exciting region, which is becoming better known as the Spanish extend into the overseas market – wines worth hunting down.