Ribera del Jucar is a DO wine zone in the Castilla-La Mancha wine region in central Spain. It was awarded the DO designation in 2003; previously it was part of the large La Mancha wine zone.

Vineyards are planted some 2500 feet above sea level; soils are a mixture of clay and pebbles. These high elevations provide for moderating cool conditions in this warm area, while breezes from the hearby Jucar River also provide relief from the torrid heat.

As with most DO in central Spain, Tempranillo (known as Cencibel, locally) is the leading variety, accounting for more than 50% of total plantings. There are also small percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, along with the local Bobal, while white varieties – in very small numbers – are lead by Sauvignon Blanc and Moscatel.

Vintage reds are labeled as crianza, as with many other Spanish wine regions; those bottled after a minimum of four months of oak aging can be labeled as Vinos Tradicion Jucar.

The red wines dominate the exports, and are generally value priced, between $10 and $18. Those priced higher offer greater complexity and age worthiness; serve these wines with aged beef or grilled lamb. (Wine/Appellations)