Ribera Alta Wine Region

Ribera Alta is one of Navarra's five sub-regions, and Navarra is a D.O-designated autonomous wine region in northern Spain. This is a wider area that accounts for over one-third of annual production in Navarra. To the east, the Ribera Alta sub-zone has 38 municipalities at an elevation of around 400 meters. The well-known sub-region of Ribera Alta produces a variety of wines that are renowned across the world for their significance and reputation. Dive into these different wines as you journey across the wine region of Navarra.

Check out the Best Wine Tastings and Tours in Ribera Alta!

Location and Landscape of Ribera Alta

The subdivision Ribera Alta is located in the center of Navarra, on the border between the northern and southern zones. Ribera Alta de Navarra comprises the center section of Navarra and has four towns with historical and cultural history to be explored alongside its superb wines. Ribera Alta accounts for about one-third of all Navarra wines produced. Olite, Lern, and Marcilla are sub-regions within the sub-region. The landscape alternates between vineyards and grains in the north and around the river Ega. Although Tafalla is the main town in Ribera Alta, a huge part of the region's vineyard operations are focused around the ancient town of Olite.

Which grapes grow in the Ribera Alta wine region?

Ribera Alta, one of Spain's most famous wine areas, is home to some of the world's most varied grape types. Not just in terms of color and flavor, but also in terms of provenance. Tempranillo predominates on the 4,125 hectares of land in Ribera Alta, along with a variety of other red varieties, most notably Graciano. When it comes to whites, this subzone contains the largest concentration of Chardonnay in the area, along with a trace of Moscatel de Grano Menudo. The majority of the grapes cultivated in Ribera Alta come from vineyards that have been properly managed for many years. Growers of these grapes take great care of them in order to make high-quality wines. With all of this attention, the growers can not only support themselves with these financially rewarding crops but also maintain and grow the traditions.

What are some typical wines produced in the Ribera Alta wine region?

The majority of Ribera Alta's wineries and vineyards are located around the town of Olite. Ribera Alta is a Navarra sub-zone that produces smooth, fragrant red wines mostly from native grape varietals like Tempranillo and Garnacha. However, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are frequently seen in this combination. These reds of Ribera Alta are characterized by their freshness and moderate tannins with aromas of red and black forest fruit. The Chardonnay grape variety is also used to make rich and fragrant white wines in this sub-zone. Navarra is famous for its barrel-fermented Chardonnay, which has toasted, spicy, and nutty notes.

Terroir and climate of the Ribera Alta wine region

The majority of Ribera Alta's wineries and vineyards are located around the town of Olite. Ribera Alta is a Navarra sub-zone that produces smooth, fragrant red wines mostly from native grape varietals like Tempranillo and Garnacha. However, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are frequently seen in this combination. These reds of Ribera Alta are characterized by their freshness and mild tannins, with scents of red and black forest fruit. The Chardonnay grape type is also used to make rich and fragrant white wines in this sub-zone. Navarra is famous for its barrel-fermented Chardonnay, which has toasted, spicy, and nutty notes.

Food Pairing with Ribera Alta wines

Gyros

Gyros is a typical Greek street food meal that consists of meat roasted on a vertical spit, such as pig and chicken in Greece or lamb and veal in other countries. The meat is cut thinly and then put in a loaf of pita bread with sauces like tzatziki and veggies like tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and cucumbers. This makes it an excellent match for good red wines.

Kaldereta

Kaldereta is a Filipino pork stew that is generally served with white rice and may be paired with both red and white wines. Although any type of meat may be used in the stew, beef and goat are the most popular. Three centuries of Spanish colonialism affected the dish, and the name kaldereta is derived from the Spanish caldereta, which means cooking kettle or cauldron. Aside from the beef, additional components in the meal include mashed liver, tomato sauce, and spices such as onions, salt, pepper, and garlic.

Chorizo

Chorizo is a Spanish sausage made of minced pork meat and fat that has been seasoned with paprika and, occasionally, garlic. These materials are then combined and placed into a natural casing. The red color of chorizo is due to the use of particular paprika known as pimenton, which is the primary component that distinguishes Spanish chorizo from other similar sausages. Chorizo is often served with red wine to complement the flavor.

Famous Spot to Visit at Ribera Alta

Valencia Cathedral

Valencia Cathedral is the city's largest and oldest church. It has a history dating back over 1,000 years. The overall layout of the building is incredibly ancient and mysterious. The interior design is likewise quite opulent. It was formerly a royal church. The cathedral has numerous tombs of Spanish celebrities. It is without a doubt one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Spain.

Queen's Square

Valencia's Queen's Square is a must-see landmark in the old town, featuring a stunning fountain and several eateries. Valencia's Saint-Lady Church is very elegant and lovely, and despite the fact that the inside is not large, its dome paintings and exquisite colors are remarkable. All of the squares are extremely old architectural conventions. There is also a lot of robust Spanish-style food and a few tiny souvenir shops here.

City of Arts and Sciences

The Science and Technology Museum is a white structure (shaped like a fish bone [Grin]), with a pool in front, in the sun, displaying a mix of modern and artistic aspects. You may go shopping at a major shopping mall not far from the Science and Technology Museum. It is incredibly vast; everything is complete, many brands are discounted, and it is quite cost-effective. A typical landmark worth seeing when in Ribera Alta.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ribera Alta wine region