Spain's geography
Rivers:
Ebro River: This is the most significant river in the northern wine regions of Spain, including Rioja and Navarra.
Duero River flows through the Ribera del Duero and Rueda wine regions.
Júcar and Genil Rivers: They flow through the Valencian and Andalusian wine regions, respectively, and are especially important for the production of Sherry.
Tajo River: This river, known as the Tagus in English, flows through several wine regions, including Ribera del Guadiana and La Mancha.
Miño River: Known as Minho in Portugal, it's crucial for the Rías Baixas wine region where the Albariño grape is dominant.
Mountains:
Pyrenees: The mountain range bordering France influences the climate and wines of Navarra and Somontano.
Sierra de Cantabria: This mountain range protects the Rioja region from the Atlantic Ocean's influences, contributing to the region's unique microclimate.
Montsant and Priorat ranges: They provide unique microclimates and varied elevations in Catalonia, influencing the Montsant and Priorat wine regions.
Sierra Nevada: This mountain range in Andalusia significantly influences the Granada and Alpujarra wine regions.
Sierra de Gredos: This mountain range influences several DOs, including Vinos de Madrid, Méntrida, and Cebreros.
Coastal
Galicia (Northwest Coast): The Atlantic Ocean heavily influences the region, resulting in a cool, damp climate. Rías Baixas, located here, is famous for its white wines made from the Albariño grape.
Basque Country (North Coast): Also under the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, this region is known for its unique Txakoli wines, light and crisp with a slight effervescence.
Catalonia (East Coast): This Mediterranean region is home to several DOs, including Penedès (known for Cava production) and Priorat (known for its powerful red wines). The coastal influence here helps moderate the warm climate.
Valencia and Murcia (East Coast): These regions produce a variety of wine styles, with the coastal areas specializing in white and rosé wines. Monastrell is a notable grape here, especially in the Jumilla, DO.
Andalucía (South Coast): Known for Sherry production, this region is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The unique system of aging, known as the "solera" system, coupled with the warm coastal climate, is key to Sherry's distinctive characteristics.
Balearic Islands (Mediterranean Sea): Islands like Mallorca and Ibiza have their own DOs and make various wines. The island climate, with its high sunlight hours and cooling sea breezes, significantly impacts the viticulture here.
Canary Islands (Atlantic Ocean): Despite their location off the coast of Africa, these islands are Spanish territory and produce some unique wines due to their volcanic soils and unique climates.
