The revival of Barbilla wheat: science and tradition bring back the bread of yesteryear in Zamora

As part of the European Transcolab Plus project, Molinos del Duero is leading the revival and promotion of Barbilla wheat in a firm commitment to local produce and sustainability.

Panfest showcases the project to revive this native and historic variety from the province of Zamora, renowned for its tall ears and exceptional resilience. This ‘heirloom’ seed has been preserved by local farmers for decades and is capable of thriving and yielding a harvest even in the poorest and most acidic soils.

The ultimate goal of this revival is to bring back the bread of yesteryear and speak directly to the palate. Although Barbilla lacks the 'strength' properties of industrial wheat varieties, it harbours a treasure: exceptional organoleptic characteristics. Molinos del Duero processes this grain using stone milling to produce a flour that imparts rustic, powerful and highly distinctive aromas and flavours to the bread in the bakery, connecting directly with culinary tradition.