The European Commission has officially recognised ‘Río Negro’ wines by including them in the register of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), highlighting their unique qualities and the rich winemaking heritage of the Guadalajara region in Spain.
The PDO designation encompasses approximately 473 hectares within the municipalities of Cogolludo, San Andrés del Congosto, and Membrillera in Guadalajara. Currently, 42 hectares are under vine cultivation. These vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 940 to 1,000 metres above sea level, contributing to the wines’ distinctive profiles
Winemaking traditions and practices
The ‘Río Negro’ area boasts a long-established winemaking tradition, with local producers passing down their expertise through generations. The region’s mountainous terrain and specific climatic conditions have led to the careful selection of grape varieties and cultivation practices tailored to these unique environmental factors. This harmonious interaction between human intervention and nature has been instrumental in defining the characteristic qualities of ‘Río Negro’ wines.
Finca Río Negro: A testament to regional excellence
At the heart of this PDO lies Finca Río Negro, a winery that epitomises the region’s viticultural excellence. Spanning 42 hectares of vineyards at an altitude of 1,000 metres, the estate challenges traditional wine-growing conventions.Surrounded by forests, the winery cultivates a range of grape varieties, including Tempranillo, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Gewürztraminer.
Finca Río Negro produces several notable wines:
- Finca Río Negro: The flagship red wine, blending Tempranillo, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, reflecting the estate’s essence.
- Gewürztraminer: A white wine showcasing the successful adaptation of this Alsace-origin grape to the estate’s high-altitude conditions.
- 992 FRN: Named after the vineyard’s altitude, this wine embodies the unique terroir of the estate.
- Finca Río Negro 5th Year: An aged red wine, requiring at least five years of careful preparation, designed to evolve gracefully over time.
Implications of PDO recognition
The PDO status not only acknowledges the unique characteristics of ‘Río Negro’ wines but also offers legal protection against imitation throughout the European Union. This recognition is expected to enhance the reputation of these wines, providing consumers with assurance of their quality and authenticity. Furthermore, it supports local producers by promoting their products in both domestic and international markets.
With this addition, Castilla-La Mancha reinforces its position as the Spanish autonomous community with the highest number of wine-related PDOs recognised by the European Union, totalling 24. This achievement underscores the region’s rich viticultural heritage and its commitment to preserving and promoting its unique wine-producing areas.
