The world of Spanish wine is evolving — and Ribera del Duero is taking the lead. The launch of the first official Ribera del Duero Wine Educator program marks a new era in the way Spain shares its viticultural identity with the world. This isn’t just another wine course; it’s a bold move to train and certify wine professionals who will represent the essence of Ribera del Duero across the globe.
For importers, sommeliers, and educators, this program sends a clear message: Ribera del Duero is investing in education, authenticity, and long-term positioning. And for those of us working as a Spanish wine importer in the USA, it validates the trust we’ve placed in the region — both in quality and vision.
What Is the Ribera del Duero Wine Educator Program?
Organized by the Ribera del Duero D.O. Regulatory Council, the program brings together 16 carefully selected wine professionals from 11 countries where the D.O. has a presence. Over the course of five days in Spain, these professionals will embark on an intensive and immersive educational experience, covering everything from vineyard management to advanced tastings and masterclasses.
Participants will travel through Burgos, Valladolid, and Soria, deepening their knowledge of the various micro-terroirs that define Ribera del Duero. By the end of the course, they will be awarded the title of Certified Ribera del Duero Wine Educator — empowering them to lead masterclasses, tastings, and educational events in their home countries on behalf of the D.O.
This program is more than a credential — it is the foundation of a global network of ambassadors for Ribera del Duero.
Marta Maté: A Key Player in the Program
Among the select wineries involved in this first edition, Marta Maté plays a leading role. Based in Tubilla del Lago, this winery has become a benchmark of precision viticulture, biodynamics, and sustainable winemaking in Ribera del Duero.
As part of the Ribera del Duero Wine Educator program, participants will visit Marta Maté’s vineyards and explore their innovative approach to crafting wines with soul and structure. Particular attention will be given to one of the winery’s flagship wines: Los Perejiles.
Los Perejiles is much more than a red wine — it is a statement. Made from high-altitude Tempranillo and aged with care, it offers a pure and powerful expression of the region’s unique climate and soil. Tasting this wine in its native terroir offers an educational experience that no textbook or online course can replicate.
Marta Maté’s inclusion in this program reflects not only their excellence but their role as a standard-bearer for the future of Ribera del Duero.
Why This Program Matters — Especially in the U.S. Market
For those of us in the U.S. wine industry, especially anyone working as a Spanish wine importer in USA, this program offers a unique opportunity to align with an increasingly sophisticated and prestigious D.O. Consumers are seeking depth — not only in flavor, but in story. The Certified Ribera del Duero Wine Educators will be equipped to bring that story to life.
This is particularly relevant as more restaurants, wine bars, and retail shops in the U.S. look to differentiate their selections with authentic Spanish wines. Being able to offer wines backed by a formal educational structure and supported by certified educators enhances the value we provide to our customers.
At Tasters, our mission has always been to bring the best of Spain to the U.S., and we believe education is a cornerstone of that journey. The launch of this program reinforces Ribera del Duero’s commitment to long-term success — and gives importers like us a stronger platform to share that success.
The Future of Ribera del Duero Lies in Knowledge
In an increasingly competitive global market, producing great wine is no longer enough. The regions that will thrive are those that educate, communicate, and differentiate. Ribera del Duero is leading that charge — and this first Ribera del Duero Wine Educator program is proof.
It signals a future where every bottle of Ribera del Duero comes with a story, a place, and a person capable of telling it. And it gives us, the importers, a clearer path to connect those wines with the consumers who will appreciate them most.
As a Spanish wine importer in the USA, we are proud to be part of this journey — and to work with exceptional wineries like Marta Maté, whose vision, precision, and authenticity continue to inspire.
