Valtiendas is a Vino de Calidad title used in the vast Castilla y Leon region of northern Spain. VC wines sit below the well-known Denominación de Origen (DO) classification but above Vino de la Tierra (VT) on Spain's wine quality ladder. Valtiendas obtained VC status in 2007 and has continued to specialize in red wines.
Valtiendas is nestled in the heart of Castilla y Leon and borders the celebrated Ribera del Duero region all along its northern half, sitting approximately 46 miles (75km) north of Segovia and that distance again to the Spanish capital, Madrid. The region is one steeped in winemaking history, proving to be a harsh yet ideal climate for high-quality grape growing.
Valtiendas has a continental climate, with hot, dry summers, and freezing cold winters. The diurnal temperature shift is just as pronounced, with hot days allowing fruit to ripen, while cool nights help them retain freshness. Vineyards sit at around 2950 ft (900m) above sea level, which is part of the recipe for quality grape growing here. Valtiendas grapes grow in soils made up of pebbles and sandy clay.
The vast majority of wines produced in Valtiendas are red wines, with only one white variety Albillo in use. Tempranillo is by far the most common variety, and is complemented by smaller quantities of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Garnacha. Red Valtiendas wines offer rich and ripe dark berry aromas, good depth, structure and personality.
