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Bierzo is a wine region in the northwest of Castilla y Leon, Spain, close to the region's borders with Galicia (to the west) and Asturias to the north. The Bierzo viticultural area consists of two parts: Bierzo Alto (high Bierzo), a mineral-rich and mountainous terrain where terraced vineyards are sewn into the slopes, and Bierzo Bajo (low Bierzo), a wide and verdant plain.

This area was once inhabited by the Romans, who extracted many tons of gold, and relics of their presence remain dotted throughout the region. The Sil River was an importany waterway back then and remains so today, although other minor streams also wend their way through the region. There is a local saying that "el Miño lleva la fama y el Sil le da el agua" ("the Miño carries the fame, but the Sil gives it its water").

The flag of Bierzo

Bierzo was accorded DO status in 1989 and in the past few years has experienced a surge in popularity thanks to the high-profile winemaker Alvaro Palacios of Priorat fame establishing vineyards there.

Bierzo's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean has a profound effect on its overall climate, with average temperatures during the growing season much cooler than in Castilla y Leon's more inland areas, making it rather mild. Average rainfall is around 28 inches (720mm). Nevertheless, the Cordillera Cantábrica mountain range in the north provides the vineyards with adequate shelter, ensuring that the local Mencia grapes achieve optimum ripeness to produce lively, fruity and often intense red wines. Like many other Spanish wines, these are categorized by the length of their maturation (including the time spent in oak barrels). Garnacha is another important red grape variety here and is primarily used in blends.

Bierzo's soil is different from that found in other parts of Castilla y Leon in that it contains a predominance of slate and granite. This favors the Mencia vines and helps them to produce wines with a distinct mineral character. The wines tend to be lighter in terms of alcohol and more refreshing than those from other parts of Castilla y León.

White wines are also produced in Bierzo, predominantly from Dona Blanca, Godello (Verdelho) and Palomino grapes. Rosé wines may also be produced, although a minimum of 50 percent Mencia is required.

The titles Crianza and Reserva may be added to wines that meet certain criteria. Crianza wines from Bierzo must be aged for a minimum of two years, with six months in oak barrels of a capacity of less than 264 gallons (1000 liters). Red Reserva wines must spend 12 months in oak barrels and 24 months in bottle, a total of three years.

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