Grenache
Native to Spain and one of the world's most widely planted varieties. Known for high alcohol and rich fruitiness. It shows its finest expression in Southern France's Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Spain's Priorat.
Spain's most prestigious wine region. Red wines primarily from Tempranillo feature vanilla and spice aromas from extended barrel aging. The aging classifications of Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva were established here. It represents Spanish wine where tradition and innovation coexist.
Climate / Soil
- Climate
- Transitional between continental and Mediterranean climate
- Soil
- 石灰質粘土, Alluvial soil, 鉄分を含む粘土
Appellations
- Rioja Alta
- Rioja Alavesa
- Rioja Oriental
History
Phoenicians and Romans introduced winemaking, and in the 19th century, Bordeaux winemakers fleeing phylloxera brought new techniques to this region. Their influence established the tradition of oak barrel aging.
Sommelier Note
Rioja's character varies greatly by aging level. Fruity Crianza, balanced Reserva, complex Gran Reserva. Compare each style to find your favorite.
Key Varieties
Tempranillo
Spain's signature noble red wine variety. It shows its finest expression in Rioja and Ribera del Duero. Known for vanilla and spice aromas from barrel aging, offering different charms at each aging level: Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva.
Carignan
A deeply coloured grape high in both acidity and tannin. Cropped heavily it turns flat, but low-yielding old vines give strikingly concentrated reds. It is Cariñena in Spain, Mazuelo in Rioja and Samsó in Catalonia.
Graciano
A blending grape at the heart of Rioja. Very high acidity, firm tannin and a violet-scented lift define it. Austere on its own, a small proportion added to Tempranillo markedly raises both ageing potential and aromatic complexity.