The DO was established in 1964 and up until 2009, only three styles of wine were permitted: one unfortified and two fortified.
White varieties include: Zalema, Muscato de Alejandria and Pedro Ximenex. Condado de Huelva Joven is a young, lively and dry white wine made from the local Zalema grape. This is starting to benefit from modern production techniques. Red grapes include: Syrah, Tempranillo and Merlot. The two main fortified wine styles are Vinos Generosos and Vinos Generosos de Licor. The former has to be aged for no less than three years, the latter is a sweet fortified style.
The climate is Maritime, with summer cooling influences from the Atlantic and a moderating effect during the winter. Further inland the climate becomes more Continental. The soils iron streaked sands with alluvial sand and limestone subsoil. Shelter belts, trees planted in the path of the prevailing wind, are often used to reduce the impact of adverse conditions.