Fascinating region located in the north of Spain. Famous for its production of high-quality red wines, this region is a paradise for wine lovers from all over the world. A special feature of Rioja is the grape variety most used in winemaking: Tempranillo. This grape variety is known for its unique flavour and contributes to the identity of Rioja wines.
Subregions
Rioja is divided into three distinct sub-regions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Oriental or Rioja Baja. Each sub-region has its own characteristics and nuances, which makes Rioja wines even more interesting and varied.
- Rioja Alta: Famous for the production of elegant and balanced wines, with a cooler climate and clay soils.
- Rioja Alavesa: With calcareous soils and vineyards at higher altitudes, it produces more concentrated and complex wines.
- Rioja Oriental (or Rioja Baja): With a hotter and drier climate, this region produces powerful and full-bodied wines.
Main Grape Varieties
The Tempranillo grape variety is the queen in Rioja, giving rise to medium-bodied to full-bodied red wines, with aromas of red and black fruits, subtle oak notes and a refreshing acidity. In addition to Tempranillo, other red grape varieties such as Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuelo are also grown. For white lovers, Viura is the dominant grape variety, often accompanied by Malvasía and Garnacha Blanca.
Wine Classification
Rioja wines are classified based on their barrel and bottle ageing time. There are four main categories:
- Joven: Young wines, without passing through barrels, ideal for immediate consumption.
- Crianza: Wines aged for at least one year in oak barrels and one year in bottle.
- Reserve: These wines are aged for a minimum of three years, with one year in barrels and two in the bottle.
- Gran Reserva: With an ageing period of at least five years, it includes two in oak barrels and three in bottle.
Rioja wines are known for their consistency, versatility and ageing ability. They are a fundamental part of Spanish gastronomic culture, perfect to accompany traditional dishes such as paella, tapas and roast lamb. If you’re looking for red wines with character and complexity, Rioja wines are an excellent choice. Venture into the tradition and flavor that this region has to offer.
