In-person programme in English aimed at professionals, like wine educators, sommeliers, and/or communicators in the world of wine.
This programme is designed to equip wine educators with a comprehensive understanding of Ribera del Duero's defining elements.
Participants will gain the knowledge and tools to explain how both the region's unique natural factors (climate, soils, altitude, topography...) and human factors (viticulture and winemaking) contribute to the creation of authentic, premium wines that showcase a remarkable diversity of styles while remaining true to their origin.
2nd EDITION
13 - 17 April 2026
RegisterComplete the registration form before 31 January 2026
Be part of the select group of certified educators from Ribera del Duero
2. D.O. Ribera del Duero
Ribera del Duero represents the dream come true for winegrowers and winemakers who, over time, have become an example of international success. It was a project born from the will of a group of winegrowers and cooperative members, men and women from the countryside whose lives revolved around the vineyard. Proud of the potential of the grapes they grew and the quality of the wines they produced, even with rudimentary means, they decided to take the necessary steps to create a Regulatory Council and a quality brand that would eventually be named Ribera del Duero.
More than forty years later, Ribera del Duero has established itself as a true international benchmark for quality wines and as the main economic and social driver of a large rural area covering municipalities in Burgos, Valladolid, Soria, and Segovia. Today, it is an emblem of Castile and León and a notable example of Spanish winemaking expertise.
Ribera del Duero exports its wines to around 125 countries and has positioned itself as one of the most recognised brands in the world. Its popularity is not solely due to commercial factors, but also to the remarkable growth in domestic tourism, which generates added value and helps to create the conditions necessary for new generations to settle and prosper in the region's towns and villages.
Climate, soil, altitude, vineyards, and people.
These are the five pillars upon which the exceptional nature of our wine is based. Our land is located between 720 and over 1,000 metres above sea level, and has a particularly harsh climate. We put quality before quantity when it comes to caring for the plants. Furthermore, the vine growers and winemakers put forth rigorous and patient efforts. Only in this way is it possible to achieve a unique, authentic wine that sets the standard for quality on both the national and international stage.
3. Programme Objectives
To provide participants with in-depth knowledge of the key elements that define the D.O. Ribera del Duero: climate, soils, altitude, topography, viticulture, and oenology, elements that contribute decisively to creating authentic and unique wines.
To make participants part of the exclusive international network of brand ambassadors for D.O. Ribera del Duero wines and make up the select group of certified educators.
To be able to offer and deliver both face-to-face and online training, with full knowledge of the D.O. Ribera del Duero and its wines, for importers, distributors, the hospitality industry-horeca, specialised shops, etc.
To provide participants with the tools and knowledge to become experts and promoters of the region's wines, while reflecting the reality of the designation of origin:
In-depth knowledge of the natural environment, viticulture, and the nuances of the different territories, shaped by its geography and microclimates.
Current approaches to winemaking and personal stories.
Grape varieties and the diversity of styles in our wines.
The role of the Regulatory Council.
History, gastronomy, and tourism.
4. Programme Content
Programme Content
The programme takes place in person in the region over 5 days and 4 nights, offering a complete experience and immersion in the D.O. Ribera del Duero—with masterclasses, meetings with winemakers, themed tastings, visits to vineyards (different soils, areas, altitudes, types of vineyard, etc.), food pairings, underground wine cellars, etc.—all focused on training the participants.
The costs of the programme, such as hotels, meals, and local transport, are covered by the Regulatory Council. Participants must travel at their own expense from their city of origin to Madrid, and back.
Ribera del Duero Textbook
Compiles all the information about the region, delivering the excitement, authenticity, and the reality of an iconic region.
Ribera del Duero Essentials
To be used as an introduction to the region and for any sales pitches.
Programme
Programme and methodology.
Formatted as a PDF, professionally designed and ready for printing.
To be used for delivering the course.
5. Programme Participation Process
If you are interested in participating in this programme, please follow these steps:
31 January 2026
Complete the registration form before 31 January 2026.
17 February 2026
The Regulatory Council, based on the candidates' profiles and the strategic interests of the markets, will select participants from all the applications received. All candidates will be notified of their acceptance or rejection into the programme.
26 February 2026
Candidates are required to commit to participating on the selected dates and to travel at their own expense from their city of origin to Madrid and back. All other programme costs, such as hotels, meals, and local transportation, are covered by the Regulatory Council.
2 March 2026
Sending the course materials (textbook) via email to selected candidates for reading and studying.
End of March 2026
A 2-hour online mentoring session will be held. This online session will be aimed at working with participants to answer any questions and clear up any doubts.
13-17 April 2026
The 2nd RDDWE programme will take place.
17 April 2026
On the last day of the programme, all participants will take an exam. Passing this exam and attending all sessions in person are required to obtain the Certified Ribera del Duero Wine Educator certification.
6. Requirements & Registration
Requirements
Programme aimed at professionals: wine educators, sommeliers, and/or communicators in the wine world with at least 3 years of experience.
Languages. An advanced level of English is an essential requirement. Solid knowledge of other languages will be considered an advantage.
Good communication skills.
Enthusiasm and excitement about joining the exclusive network of Ribera del Duero ambassadors.
2nd EDITION
13 to 17 April 2026
Complete the registration form before 31 January 2026
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