Wines of Northern Spain

Although rightly famed for the wines of Rioja, the north of Spain has even more to offer the wine adventurer. Criss-crossed by rivers, its landscape ranges from the dramatic Pyrenees in the north-east to the low inlets of the Atlantic coast in the west. Growers - and consumers - can enjoy a diversity of terroirs and an exciting array of native varieties.

This introduction to the wines of northern Spain explores the changes, starting in the west, where the wineries of Galicia - from Rias Baixas to Valdeorras - have multiplied, while Bierzo is building a reputation for aromatic, refreshing reds, and Castilla y Leon is home to a growing number of individual, top quality producers. Travelling east, the success of Ribera del Duero has attracted investors from outside the region, all eager to gain a share of the limelight, while Aragon is busy building an international reputation for its venerable bush vine Garnachas. Across the country, a new generation is joining established producers in a remarkable blossoming of fine wines. Extensive producer profiles and established and well-known estates mingle on the page with newer makers and small producers to provide a thoroughly up-to-date and indispensable reference. For all wine enthusiasts keen to explore this region - whether in person or from a favourite armchair - The Wines of Northern Spain is essential reading.

Review: Her profiles are succinct but with a level of observation that can come only from someone who knows the wines and people very well ... There are plenty of gems tucked into these lists for anyone looking for wines and producers off the beaten track. - Tamlyn Currin, jancisrobinson.com