Introduction to Rioja Wine

Rioja is Spain’s most famous wine region, known for producing high-quality reds, whites, and rosés. It is located in northern Spain along the Ebro River, with a winemaking tradition dating back centuries. Rioja wines are aged using a strict classification system that determines their style and complexity.

Grape Varieties

• Red (Tinto): Tempranillo (main grape), Garnacha (Grenache), Graciano, Mazuelo (Carignan), Maturana Tinta

• White (Blanco): Viura (Macabeo), Malvasía, Garnacha Blanca, Tempranillo Blanco, Maturana Blanca, Turruntés

Winemaking & Aging Process

Rioja wines are classified based on how long they are aged:

• Joven (Young, little or no oak aging): Fruity, fresh wines for early drinking.

• Crianza (Aged at least 2 years, including 1 year in oak): Balanced fruit and oak flavors.

• Reserva (Aged at least 3 years, including 1 year in oak): More complexity with smooth tannins.

• Gran Reserva (Aged at least 5 years, including 2 years in oak): Elegant and refined with deep, mature flavors.

Rioja Wine Regions (Subzones)

Rioja is divided into three main subzones, each with distinct characteristics:

1. Rioja Alta – Higher altitude, cooler climate; produces elegant, age-worthy wines with good acidity.

2. Rioja Alavesa – Limestone soils, moderate climate; known for intense fruit and balanced tannins.

3. Rioja Oriental (formerly Rioja Baja) – Warmer and drier; produces fuller-bodied wines with riper fruit.

2023 RIOJA BLANCO Sierra de Toloño

Grape Variety: 100% Viura

Notes: This fresh and aromatic white wine offers herbal nuances with a sensation of freshness. With an alcohol content of 11.5%, it showcases vibrant acidity and is matured in stainless steel with lees, resulting in a young, fruit-driven profile.

2020 REY DON GARCIA RIOJA Crianza Bodegas Ruconia

Grape Varieties: Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo

Notes: A lively Crianza featuring vibrant cherry fruit complemented by attractive vanilla oak. Medium-bodied with a consistent high tone throughout, this wine offers excellent value for money.

2021 RIOJA Pies Negros Crianza Artuke

Grape Varieties: Predominantly Tempranillo with a small percentage of Graciano

Notes: This Crianza showcases the traditional foot-stomping method ("Pies Negros") in its production, resulting in a wine with deep color and rich flavors. Expect notes of dark berries, subtle spices, and a balanced structure with fine tannins.

2020 RIOJA Camino de Santa Cruz Sierra de Toloño

Grape Variety: Tempranillo

Notes: Sourced from high-altitude vineyards, this wine exhibits freshness and purity. It offers aromas of red fruits, floral hints, and a mineral backbone, reflecting the unique terroir of the Sierra de Toloño region.

2020 TENTENUBLO RIOJA TINTO

Grape Varieties: Blend of indigenous varieties including Tempranillo and Garnacha

Notes: A vibrant and expressive red wine with notes of ripe red fruits, Mediterranean herbs, and a touch of spice. The palate is fresh with good acidity, soft tannins, and a lingering finish.

2018 XÉRICO Tentenublo

Grape Varieties: Primarily Tempranillo with a small proportion of Viura

Notes: This unique blend offers a harmonious balance between red fruit flavors and floral aromas. The inclusion of Viura adds a subtle freshness, resulting in a complex and elegant wine with a smooth finish.