This area is renowned for producing full-bodied, robust red wines made primarily from the Tempranillo grape, known locally as Tinto Fino. A rival to La Rioja, Ribera del Duero straddles the Duero River in the northwestern region of Castilla y Leon. Ribera del Duero… even the way this wine region’s name rolls off the tongue hints at a delicious Spanish treat to come. The region was the first in Spain to be granted DO status, and in 1991 it achieved DOCa status: the highest Spanish wine classification. Rioja red wines are typically blends, with Tempranillo as the backbone grape variety, complemented by Garnacha, Mazuelo (better known as Carignan or Cariñena), and Graciano. Hence, the name could mean "The Oja River" (Rio Oja). The name "Rioja" doesn't have any direct translation, but it is believed to be derived from the river "Oja," which runs through the region. Their red wines have captured the world’s attention – and understandably so. Tucked away in northern Spain, this wine region spans three fertile valleys – Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Baja. La Rioja is synonymous with Spanish wine. ![]() Spain has more than a dozen wine regions, but I will present only 5 of them, as they are the most iconic and interesting. Rebera del duero is more tricky due to mix of average and great wine… And Rioja’s have more body but little more classic… My favourite house/maker is from the Rioja region: but limited production: OXER wine – iraum white or in red the kalamity… if you find them, worth every penny… Do you go to Spain? Or buy import? Wil make a huge difference in price… I’ll always try to visit the Winehouse or a local wine shop… kristofvr A Map of Regions for Spanish Red Wine Useful Video I visit Spain every year… you have great priorat starting from 20€, and some cheaper comparable montsant wines… never bought a bad priorat. The bottle was gone within 30 minutes unfortunately. If you go higher end, 2014 Tabuerniga left me speechless for what a spanish red can be. Priorat or Montsant (Recommendations: Zerran by Jorge Ordonez or Bula which I have seen at Whole Foods) is a big fruit driven red based usually on Grenache so it has a lot of fruit and spice to it which also could be less jarring if you are used to sweet reds. One possible option could be a simple Marques de Caceres from the grocery store or La Rioja Alta which is a top producer. All of these will be dry but the Rioja has an oak character that might make up (to your palette) for the lack of residual sugar that you find in the Stella Rosa. I would recommend a Rioja Reserva (can find good for even under $30) or Crianza (cheaper, less oak aging) or a something from Priorat or Montsant. The producer Black Slate makes a particularly nice one for ~$20.Īnother affordable option that is Tempranillo (instead of the Priorat option being Garnacha) is Flores de Callejo from Ribera del Duero. If you like really robust wines that still have a pleasant mineral lift of acidity to them, you could go for a particular area of Priorat called La Vilella Alta. I also greatly enjoy Ribera del Duero as a region. ![]() Rioja and Priorat are the two DOCa regions (highest designations) in Spain, so they offer many fantastic wines. It would really depend on your taste and preferences. Tip #3: Wineries to visit and pairings to try.Tip #1: What to know about Spanish wines.It is made from eight different grape varieties and is relatively expensive, costing around €18 in 2024. Try Valencian Las Ocho ( My favorite one!).Get an app called Vivino, which allows you to take a picture of any wine label and access information about the winery, market price, reviews, and more.Every region has its share of both good and bad wines. The most renowned wine-producing region in Spain is La Rioja, but don’t be misled by this fact.Remember, there is no universally best wine there is only the wine you personally favor the most.Whether you’re a wine novice, a budding connoisseur or you simply enjoy the occasional glass, my guide to the finest Spanish red wines will show you how to appreciate these delights like a true local! With each region boasting its own unique wine production, Spain’s selection can be overwhelming – it’s hard to know where to start.ĭon’t worry! I’m here to help you navigate the grape vines. Spain is truly a wine lover’s paradise, and there’s nothing quite like embarking on a wine tour in this stunning country. Welcome to the world of Spanish red wines, where bold flavors and vibrant aromas come together to create a unique experience.
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