Seven importers from the United States visited the Ribera del Duero Denomination of Origin these days to learn about the quality wines of the area with the help of the Association of Winemakers (ASEBOR). The Americans agreed that the proposals of the producers “fit 100%” with the tastes of the American consumer; “there are many doors to knock on, but we must continue to insist on communication to convey the history of this important denomination of the beginning that not everyone knows there.
Importers arrived from the main states of the country and visited a dozen wineries within one of the reverse missions, where Asebor seeks to promote the wines of Ribera del Duero and facilitate access to its partners in emerging markets. On her first trip to the appellation of Origin, Michelle Schreck was amazed by some “excitingly delicious” wines and, in general, by the gastronomy and also by the roast lamb. For his part, Arnoldo Palacios assured that the Spanish and Ribera wine markets are highly appreciated. “A large percentage is sold,” he continued, convinced that in order to grow, it is important that more training and education be given about this land of wines. “That’s why we’re here—to absorb the culture of Ribera del Duero wines.”
The wine consumer profile in the United States is over 55 years old, but younger people are starting to wake up. “They’re using wine apps, and they’re starting to drink wine,” said Glenn Albright, another importer. He warned that habits have changed, and the current economic situation makes them look more at the price. As he explained, we must also consider that a young person does not have the power to buy an older person, but they may be interested. “They are looking for new styles of wine and give importance to labels. More than traditional, they prefer clean and modern,” advises Glenn.
The North American consumer, according to these professionals, is above all looking for full-bodied but easy-drinking wines, “quality wines with competitive prices.” “La Ribera fits 100% of what the consumer is looking for,” he concluded.
