The Designation of Origin Arribes covers the southwest of Zamora province and the northwest of Salamanca province. The region was declared a Natural Park in 2002 because of its high ecological value, changing its name to Natural Park of Arribes del Duero. This is a rich, quiet setting, whose landscape has barely been altered by mankind. In 2007, the region achieved the classification of Designation of Origin, in recognition of the viticultural tradition in the region, as well as the value of its native grape varietals and the effort being made to continue a type of historical grape-growing in plots.

The chief varieties of red-wine grapes are Juan García (a native grape of great personality and refinement), Rufete and Tempranillo, which is also called Tinta Serrana or Tinto Madrid in the area. Complementary varietals accepted are Garnacha and Mencía.

Red Grapes
Authorised: Juan García, Rufete, Tempranillo, Garnacha, Bruñal, Bastardillo chico.

White Grapes
Authorised: Malvasía, Verdejo, Albillo, Puesta en Cruz.

The region has a Mediterranean climate with Atlantic influences. Rainfall occurs throughout the growth cycle; summers are dry, hot and sunny with an effect of sunshine hours increased by the land slope and good hillside orientations.

Not very deep, the soil is sandy with loose granite and quartz stones. There are frequent outcrops that are rocky and of little organic material.

The perfectly drained subsoil acts as a heat control between the day and night due to one factor: the slate factor. It accumulates heat during the day, letting it off gradually at night, thus facilitating better grape ripeness.