Castilla y León

This DO region is located in the extreme north-west of the wine-growing region of Castilia-León in Spain. The name is derived from the wine-producing town of Villafranca del Bierzo. The vineyard area totals around 3.900 hectares, the vineyards are located at an altitude of 500 to 600 metres above sea level, the soils are granitic or rich in slate. The indigenous red grape variety Mencia dominates, and makes up 60% of the area planted, at least 75% of this variety must be contained in the red wines. In addition, the use of Garnacha Tintorea is permitted. For white wines, Palomino, Godello and Doña Blanca are the permitted varieties. Experiments are currently under way with Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer.