El Bierzo, sometimes called 'the gateway to Galicia', is a fertile, rich plain enclosed on both sides by mountains. It is probably best known as a mining area, enclosing a small group of towns with considerable industry, but is also ideal vineyard country. Gentle valley slopes rise up towards pines and are protected from Atlantic influences by mountains.

Both in terms of landscape and the wines from this area, this is an area of transition between the meseta and Galicia, with excellent varietal Mencía reds and whites based on the Godello grapes planted in neighbouring Valdeorras DO. The local grapes lend themselves to making excellent wines and with good techniques this could become a high-profile region.