Wines Ribera del Duero Familia Martínez Zabala - Crianza

Produced by Familia Martínez Zabala, this non-vintage Crianza from Ribera del Duero embodies the classic character of this celebrated region. While the precise grape blend isn’t explicitly listed, Ribera del Duero reds are predominantly crafted from Tinto Fino (the local name for Tempranillo), often complemented by small quantities of other varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, depending on the producer’s philosophy. As a Crianza, this wine has spent a minimum period ageing in oak barrels – typically around 12 months, followed by bottle maturation – which imparts subtle notes of vanilla, sweet spice and a rounded texture to the wine’s naturally robust fruit profile. Expect a harmonious balance between red and dark fruit, gentle oak influence, and a structure suited to both immediate enjoyment and short-term cellaring.

Ribera del Duero, located in the heart of Castille and León, is renowned for its dramatic weather swings, with scorching summers and harsh winters shaping the grapes and ensuring concentrated flavours. The region’s vineyards stretch across high plateaux, ranging from 700 to 850 metres in altitude. Soils alternate between limestone, clay, and gravel, conferring complexity and structure to the wines. Winemaking in Ribera del Duero traces back to Roman times, but the past forty years have seen the region ascend to global prominence, rivalling Rioja as Spain’s flagship for age-worthy reds.

This Crianza’s vibrant yet refined profile pairs beautifully with traditional Castilian cuisine such as roast suckling lamb (lechazo asado) or slow-cooked pork ribs. Other excellent companions include chargrilled steak, hearty stews, mushroom risotto, or a well-matured Manchego cheese. The wine’s structure and freshness also complement paprika-spiced dishes or Mediterranean flavours rooted in olive oil and garlic.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing its aromas to unfurl. Serve slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16 and 18°C. This ensures the balance between fruit, acidity, and oak is fully expressed, offering the quintessential Ribera del Duero experience.