Durango

Durango

24° 1' 39.793" N

LATITUDE

104° 39' 11.433" W

LONGITUDE

1

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about this region

The Durango wine region in Mexico, though less known compared to other prominent Mexican wine regions, is an emerging area with a unique blend of climatic and soil conditions conducive to viticulture. Nestled in the diverse landscapes of northern Mexico, this region benefits from a range of microclimates, largely influenced by its varying altitudes and the intricate topography of the area.

Durango's climate is generally characterized by its dryness, with warm days and cooler nights. This diurnal temperature variation is crucial for the development of complexity and balance in grapes. The region's predominantly sunny weather contributes to the consistent ripening of grapes, an essential factor for quality wine production.

Soil composition in Durango varies but includes significant areas of mineral-rich soils, which are known to impart unique characteristics to the grapes and, consequently, the wines. These soils range from sandy to loamy, providing good drainage and encouraging vines to develop deep root systems. The mineral content of these soils often reflects in the terroir-driven qualities of the wines produced in the region.

Durango's vineyards are home to a variety of grape types, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Chardonnay. Each of these varieties thrives in the region's unique environmental conditions, contributing to a diverse and exciting range of wines.

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Vineyard Hectares

4

WINERIES

2194 GDD

growing degree days

Discover Terroir

The Durango wine region is located in southwestern Colorado, characterized by its diverse landscape. It encompasses the San Juan Mountains to the east, fertile valleys, and the winding Animas River. Vineyards are strategically spread throughout the region, from the riverbanks with rich alluvial soils to elevated vineyards on rocky hillsides. This varied terrain results in distinct microclimates and terroirs, shaping the unique qualities of the wines produced here. Surrounded by natural beauty and stunning views, the Durango wine region's landscape not only inspires but also plays a crucial role in crafting its exceptional wines.

In the Durango wine region, there is great climatic variation between seasons. The highest temperatures are usually recorded during July, with an average of 19.4 °C, while on the other hand January is usually the month with the lowest temperatures, with an average of -6.5 °C. 

Regarding rainfall, the month where it is most concentrated is September, with an average of 67 mm, while the driest month is usually June, with an average of 17 mm. These variations allow the wines of this region to have characteristics that distinguish them from others.

The Durango wine region's diverse soil composition significantly shapes its wine profiles, a product of centuries of evolution.

  • Alluvial Soils: Along the Animas River, these soils consist of silt, sand, and gravel, ensuring excellent drainage and moderate fertility. Ideal for vines, they encourage deep root growth, yielding grapes with intense flavors.
  • Sandy Loam Soils: Predominant near the San Juan Mountains, these well-drained soils provide a balanced grapevine growth environment, resulting in wines harmonizing fruitiness with mineral hints.

These soil variations, coupled with grape diversity, give rise to an array of wines, each with distinct characteristics. Durango's continued exploration and use of these unique soils cements its status as a unique and essential wine-producing region in Mexico.

Discover

In Durango's wine region, a part of Mexico's diverse viticultural landscape, a range of grape varieties thrives under its unique environmental conditions. These varieties include:

  1. Cabernet Sauvignon: Prefers longer growing seasons, needs daytime warmth, and benefits from cool nights. Requires well-drained soils for hilly terrain.
  2. Tempranillo: Flourishes in warm, dry conditions, requiring abundant sunlight and adapting well to various soil types.
  3. Merlot: Excels in cooler microclimates with clay-based soils, ripening early, which makes it versatile.
  4. Sauvignon Blanc: Thrives best in cooler areas with well-drained soils and relies on cool nights to maintain acidity.
  5. Chenin Blanc: Adaptable to different climates, it performs exceptionally in well-drained soils, producing varied wine styles based on the microclimate.
  6. Chardonnay: Cultivated across diverse microclimates, Chardonnay prefers cooler areas with fertile, well-drained soils and significant temperature variations between day and night.

These grape varieties, each with its specific requirements, form the core of Durango's distinctive wine culture, shaping the region's continually evolving wine profile.

The Durango wine region in Mexico offers a diverse wine selection, reflecting its unique terroir and winemaking tradition.

  1. Cabernet Sauvignon: Is known for firm tannins, dark fruit, tobacco, and leather notes with oak influence.
  2. Tempranillo: It offers plum, cherry, and earthy/spicy tones with aging complexity.
  3. Merlot: Merlot wines features gentle tannins, cherry, raspberry, herbal, and chocolate notes.
  4. Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp, citrusy and herbaceous, with a hint of minerallity.
  5. Chenin Blanc: Versatile, with flavors ranging from ripe apples and pears to tropical fruits, often with a floral hint.
  6. Chardonnay: It has different styles from crisp and fruity to rich and oaked, maintaining fruit and acidity balance.

These wines embody Durango's rich viticultural heritage and unique terroir.

altitude

1200-2100 m

rain

100-150 mm

soil

The most common soils in the Durango wine region are alluvial soils and sandy loam soils.

top varietal

Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay

History of wine

Durango's wine region in Mexico has a resilient history, dating back to the 16th century when Spanish settlers introduced grape cultivation. Despite economic and political challenges, it thrives today due to advances in grape farming and growing interest in Mexican wines. Durango now grows various grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and Sauvignon Blanc, expressing the region's unique flavors. Winemakers aim to capture Durango's spirit in their wines, reflecting toughness, adaptability, and a deep connection to the land.

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