Rioja wines

Your guide to Rioja

History of wines from Rioja

The history of Rioja wines dates back to ancient times, with the first vineyards believed to have been planted by the Phoenicians over 2,000 years ago. The region's unique climate and soil conditions proved ideal for grape cultivation, and Rioja wines quickly gained a reputation for their exceptional quality. During the medieval period, Rioja wines were already well-known and widely traded, but it was not until the 17th century that they began to gain more recognition throughout Europe, particularly in England.

The export of Rioja wines increased significantly in the 18th century, and by the end of the century, Rioja had become one of the most important wine regions in Spain. The mid-19th century saw a surge in popularity when French winemakers fleeing the phylloxera epidemic settled in the region, introducing new techniques and production methods. This period also saw the introduction of oak barrel aging, which greatly increased the longevity of Rioja wines.

Despite facing significant challenges, including the phylloxera epidemic and the Spanish Civil War, Rioja wines experienced a renaissance in the post-war years. The 1970 Rioja vintage was recognized as "the vintage of the century," and since the 1980s, Rioja wines have continued to evolve and improve with modern techniques and equipment. In 1991, Rioja was awarded the DOCa status, recognizing its exceptional quality and authenticity.

Terroir of Rioja

The terroir of Rioja wines is defined by the region's diverse soil types, which include calcareous soils in Rioja Alta and alluvial soils with a mix of clay and silt in Rioja Oriental. These soils contribute to the unique characteristics of the wines, with Rioja Alta producing wines known for their balanced structure and bright acidity, while Rioja Oriental yields fuller-bodied wines with higher alcohol levels and softer tannins.

The climate also plays a crucial role in defining the terroir. Rioja experiences a warm and temperate climate with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. The Sierra Cantabria mountain range to the north protects the region from the Atlantic influence and north winds, creating a microclimate that supports the growth of high-quality grapes. The human factor, including the decisions of winegrowers about planting, grape selection, and vineyard management, further influences the terroir and the final product.

Top grapes in Rioja

Tempranillo

Tempranillo is the quintessential grape of the Rioja region, renowned for its central role in producing the area's famed red wines. This grape variety offers a delicate balance of berry-like flavors with hints of tobacco and leather, contributing to its complex profile. It adapts well to the local climate, resulting in wines that are robust yet elegant, with a potential for aging that enhances their depth and character. Tempranillo's versatility allows it to be used in both single varietal wines and blends, making it a staple in the portfolios of many Rioja winemakers.

Garnacha

Garnacha, or Grenache, is another important grape in Rioja, especially prevalent in the region's blend compositions. It is appreciated for its ability to add body, alcohol content, and red fruit flavors like raspberry and strawberry to wines. Garnacha thrives in the warmer parts of Rioja, where it can fully ripen and express its rich, juicy qualities. This grape is often blended with Tempranillo, providing a perfect complement that enhances the fruitiness and softens the tannins of the wine. Its contribution is crucial in creating the well-rounded, approachable style that Rioja wines are known for.

Graciano

Graciano is a lesser-known but highly valued grape in Rioja, prized for its deep color and aromatic complexity. It typically plays a supporting role in blends, adding vibrancy and longevity to the wine. Graciano's high acidity and pronounced tannins contribute to the structure and aging potential of Rioja wines, making them more suitable for long-term cellaring. Its aromatic profile includes dark berry fruits, licorice, and herbal notes, which provide an intriguing layer of complexity to the blends. Although not as widely planted as Tempranillo or Garnacha, Graciano's unique qualities make it an essential component in the crafting of premium Rioja wines.