The Galician Association of Artisanal Viticulture defends the need to move forward towards a model of zoning and classification of Galician vineyards that recognises the diversity and value of our winegrowing territories. This is an essential step to place Galicia on the world map of quality wines, highlighting its origin, soils, grape varieties and the work of small producers.

For years, the colleiteiros of Ribeiro have been calling for the classification of soils and vineyard plots as a tool to convey to consumers an image of greater rigour, transparency and authenticity. Other appellations, such as Bierzo or Rioja, have already progressed along this path, and Galicia cannot afford to fall behind if it wants to compete in quality and prestige.

Categories

The model we propose is based on the idea that not all wines are the same, nor do all vineyards hold the same historical, soil-related or cultural value. Therefore, it is necessary to establish categories according to their origin and uniqueness, recognising everything from the current appellations of origin and geographical indications to the most specific levels:

Historic vineyard wines, true jewels of Galician viticulture, over 75 years old and of incalculable heritage value.

Subzone wines: made from grapes grown in a subzone belonging to a D.O. or I.G.P., reflecting the general characteristics of that territory.

Municipality wines, made from grapes grown within a single municipality.

Parish or village wines, reflecting the identity of a smaller and more specific territory.

Single vineyard wines, made from parcels over 15 years old, with an expression shaped by the soil, orientation and age of the vines.

This classification system would help to better organise and communicate the value of our wines, rewarding the work of winegrowers committed to the land and to quality. At the same time, it would help protect traditional vineyards and native grape varieties against the loss of vineyard area and the homogenisation of the territory.

Finally, we call for recognition of the cultural and social value of Galician wine, a product that forms part of our identity and our way of life. Wine is not only a drink: it is an element of heritage, community and collective memory, and it must be defended and supported by institutions.