The lands which are grouped under the Appellation of Origin Ribera del Duero are located at the confluence of four provinces of Castilla y León: Burgos, Segovia, Soria and Valladolid, where the Douro River is the axis linking the different localities within the Appellation.

The climate is characterized by low average rainfall, coupled with hot dry summers and long, cold winters, classifying it within a continental Mediterranean climate. These weather conditions have a crucial role in the correct plant development and ripening of the grapes. The soil is composed of sandy and clay sediments, emphasizing the alternating layers, both of limestone, and marl.

The permitted grape varieties are: Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Garnacha and Albillo.