Ribera del Duero 1996 Vintage Report
Defining the 1996 vintage in Ribera del Duero requires looking beyond the averages, as it was a year of contrasting fortunes and precise timing.
The cycle began with a harmonious flowering period. Warm days (avg 19°C) allowed for an even fruit set, establishing the potential for a generous crop. However, the threat of frost loom large, with 2 distinct cold snaps keeping vineyard managers on high alert during budbreak.
Summer conditions were balanced, oscillating between warm spells and refreshing intervals that kept the ripening on a steady track. A key factor was the dramatic diurnal shift (12.2°C), ensuring that despite the daytime warmth, acidities remained razor-sharp.
Harvest proceeded under mixed skies, requiring agility to dodge the 40mm of rain that fell sporadically during the picking weeks.
**Style:** Classically proportioned wines with good balance and terroir expression.
About Ribera del Duero
Located on a high plateau, Ribera del Duero experiences extreme temperature swings. This results in "Tinto Fino" (Tempranillo) wines of immense concentration, dark fruit, and robust tannins.
Climatic Blueprint
Growing Degree Days (GDD)
Total Rainfall
Sunshine Hours
Diurnal Shift
Frost Days
Average Temperature
Historical Context (10 Years)
Comparison of growing season heat accumulation vs regional average.
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