Rioja Wine Description

Rioja wine dates back to 11th-century Spain.

Spanish Rioja wine comes in red, rosé and white varieties. The most common, red Rioja tends to have berry and stone-fruit notes while white Rioja often displays citrus and tropical fruit aromas.

Location

Rioja wine comes from the Rioja region of northern Spain. To be called Rioja, it must come from the subregions of Alta, Alavesa or Baja. Rioja was the first Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) region in Spain.

Varieties

Red Rioja makes up 80 percent of Rioja production. There are also rosé and white varieties, which each make up 10 percent of Rioja production. When the wine is simply called Rioja, it is the youngest variety. The classification crianza means the wine has aged for at least two years, while Rioja resera indicates that it has been aged for at least three years. If a bottle says Rioja gran reserva, then it has aged for at least two years in oak and an additional three in the bottle.

Grapes

Tempranillo, garnacha tinta, graciano and mazuelo are the grapes used in different proportions to make red Rioja. To make white Rioja, viura, malvasia and garnacha blanca grapes can be used. Tempranillo usually comprises the majority of red Riojas while garnacha blanca comprises the majority of whites.

Flavor

Although the flavor of Rioja differs based upon the exact blend of grapes and the age of the wine, red Riojas tend to be fruity with possible chocolate, spice, earthy or oak notes. White Riojas are often bright and clean with good acidity and a variety of possible fruit aromas.

References

• Rioja: History
• Wine Intro: Rioja Wine Information
• Spanish Fiestas: Rioja Wine Region
• Vibrant Rioja: Rioja Wine Flavor & Pairing Chart