Rioja 101
The Spanish region of Rioja (ree-OH-hah) produces both red and white wines, but is mostly noted for its reds (75-80% of total production). Rioja is located in northern Spain, and the vineyards have existed since the Roman times.
Rioja wines typically use four grapes for red wine. The prominent grape is called Tempranillo (tem-prah-NEE-yoh), synonymous with Rioja. Tempranillo is often referred to as the famous native grape of Spain. This grape produces medium to full bodied red wines with aromas and flavors of berries, plum, vanilla, leather and herb.
Rioja wines are divided into 4 categories of quality:
1. Young wines - often times labeled Rioja, would have spent less than one year aged in oak.
2. Crianza - aged for least 2 years with one of those years being aged in oak.
3. Reserva - aged for a minimum for 3 years with one of those years spent aged in oak.
4. Gran Reserva - spent at least 2 years aged in oak and 3 years in the bottle.
The designation of Crianza, Rserva and Gran Reserva might not appear on the front label, but might show up on the back label of the bottle or the neck of the bottle in the form of a stamp.
The Rioja region is further divided into 3 sub regions, each with different climates and soil, which explains how wines made from the same grape or blend can be so different.
1.Rioja Alta, known for its fine, elegant wines with only moderate alcohol.
2.Rioja Alavesa, known for its exceptionally fruity wines.
3.Rioja Baja, a warmer climate region that produces extremely dark grapes, which results in dark colored wines with the potential for producing a wine with higher alcohol content.
That a lot of info on Rioja! Where do you start with this on your next trip to the wine store or restaurant? As you select Rioja wines (moving from the young Rioja to the Reserva and Gran Reserva) the wines will become more complex, so you would want hearty fare to accompany the later wines, such as grilled lamb, pork, fall and winter stews. The Rioja Crianza is a good every day wine to pair with anything from grilled fish, beef to pasta. Rioja’s can be a very versatile food wine. Try sampling a variety of Rioja’s to see which one appeals to you! You can purchase Rioja wines for as little as 10 dollars. You will be able to find a large range of Rioja’s in the price range of 15-25 dollars.
Until next time, cheers!
