From a geomorphological point of view, the region is from the Miocene epoch. The soil is made up of tertiary and quaternary sediments: sand, limestone and marl, on a subsoil of clay and loam.
The soil has a weak granular structure, fine to medium, with few stones and little organic material (0.7 to 1.6%).
It lies on a subsoil layer of clay and loam and sometimes on sand and gravel. The limestone content varies greatly, ranging from 1% in Santovenia to 35% in Valoria. In general the soil contains enough potassium but is poor in phosphorous. Its pH is around 8.1.
The area has a continental climate influenced by the Atlantic, with wide temperature variations, both diurnal and also throughout the year.
Rainfall tends to be irregular with severe drought in the summer; winters are long and harsh with frequent frost and fog, with the predominant winds coming from the west and southwest.
The average annual hours of sun total 2,616, with a maximum of 371 hours in July and a minimum of 87 hours in December.
Average annual rainfall is 407 mm, occurring over 93 days per year. The average annual temperature is 12.2°C, with a temperature range of -6°C to 39°C.
The vegetative cycle of the different grape varieties in the zone depends both on the weather and also the variety per se. The values below are therefore the averages for the different stages in the cycle.
Authorised red varieties
This is one of the main varieties in the D.O., accounting for 70% of the vines grown. It produces excellent rosés thanks to its aromatic potential and colour, being rich in extract and adding a violet colour to the wines.
This variety adds freshness, finesse, alcohol content, fruitiness and smoothness.
Adds structure, aromas, elegant vegetable flavours and touches of violet. In the mouth these wines tend to be meaty with a lot of structure. This grape is characterised by its consistency and longevity, with a lot of body and aromas.
Adds deep aromas of wild fruits and violets, making a spicy wine with notable acidity. In young wines it provides pleasant notes of violet, cassis and dark fruits while smoky aromas evolve during ageing, as well as coconut and spices. It develops a great personality as it ages.
Noted for being fine and smooth but also aromatic and meaty, this variety combines well with Garnacha for young wines and with Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo for aged wines.
Dense color, high phenolic content, thick skin. Provides fruity aromas, very lively, powerful. Full in the mouth. Fat tannin and balanced acidity.
Late ripening and compact bunch. Provides citrus notes with hints of tangerine and grapefruit. Very fresh due to its content. High in acidity giving a sensation of young wine.
Authorised white varieties
Produced in combination with the other varieties to make rosé wines, it contributes its great aromatic potential, brilliance and, in short, its great quality.
Produces very sweet, aromatic musts and is used in the production of rosés and also reds, contributing great finesse.
Adds more defined and abundant aromatic characteristics than the ones currently achieved by our rosés, adding its own particular mineral, herbaceous and floral hints that underline its classic aromatic capacity.
Great acidity, high alcohol and citrus and herbaceous aromas, fruitiness and smoothness. Berry of medium size and great vigor.
It is a variety of great adaptability to all types of soils. Very productive, large and compact cluster with a mild flavor. It gives light wines with little acidity with juicy characters, white and tropical fruits.
Certification Documentation
Cigales D.O. Vintage ratings
Statistical summary
Cigales D.O. Regulations
Exports
Vendimia 2023
Normas vendimia 2023
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