Tempranillo has been grown on the Iberian Peninsula since the time of Phoenician settlements which date back to 500BC. An early ripening variety its name is the diminutive of the Spanish temprano (early). 

It thrives on chalky soils and is found predominantly in the Spanish regions of Ribera del Duero and Rioja. In Portugal it is known as Tinto Roriz. When vinified alone it has flavours of strawberries and plums.

D.O. Ribera del Duero was founded in July 1982. Located on an elevated northern plateau, it is an autonomous community within Castilla y Leon. The region follows the course of the Duero river and includes the areas of Burgos, Valladolid and parts of Segovia.

The region produces wines suitable for long ageing and uses the same age categorisation as Rioja.