Made famous by Rioja, this dry, medium full body wine is full of cherry & savory dried fig flavors, as well as earthy flavors like tobacco & dill. While it does not get as rich as Cabernet Sauvignon, it is a very complex wine with layers start to finish.
Tempranillo is a grape variety that is native to the Iberian Peninsula, specifically to the regions of Spain and Portugal. It is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in Spain, where it is used to produce a variety of red wines.
The name "Tempranillo" is derived from the Spanish word "temprano," which means "early," as the grape tends to ripen earlier than many other varieties. The grape has thick skin and high acidity, which makes it well-suited for the production of red wines with good structure and aging potential.
Taste Profile
Tempranillo wines are often described as having flavors and aromas of red fruit, such as cherries, raspberries, and strawberries, as well as spices, leather, and tobacco. They can range in style from light and fruity to full-bodied and structured, depending on the terroir, winemaking techniques, and aging regimen.
Winemaking Regions
Tempranillo is believed to have originated in the region of La Rioja in Spain, where it has been grown for centuries. The grape has also been introduced to other regions of Spain, as well as to other countries around the world, including Argentina, Australia, California, and South Africa.
In addition to its use in wine production, Tempranillo is also grown for the production of raisins and for table grapes. It is a hardy and adaptable grape variety that is resistant to many of the common diseases that affect grapevines.
Spain
The grape is native to the Iberian Peninsula and is believed to have originated in the region of La Rioja. However, it has also been introduced to other regions of Spain, where it is used to produce a variety of red wines with distinct flavors and aromas.
One of the main differences between Tempranillo wines from different regions of Spain is the style and character of the wines. In general, Tempranillo wines from La Rioja tend to be more structured and age-worthy, with flavors and aromas of red fruit, spices, and leather. These wines are often aged in oak barrels, which can impart additional flavors and aromas.
Tempranillo wines from other regions of Spain, such as Ribera del Duero and Penedès, tend to be more fruit-forward and approachable, with flavors and aromas of red fruit, such as cherries and raspberries, as well as herbs and spices. These wines are often made in a more modern style, with less oak aging and a focus on the fruit flavors of the grape.
Ribera del Duero is located in the province of Burgos, in the north of Spain. It is characterized by a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The region is known for its dry and arid conditions, with low annual rainfall and a high diurnal temperature range, which can result in grapes with high levels of acidity and concentration.
Rioja, on the other hand, is located in the province of La Rioja, in the north of Spain. It is characterized by a more moderate climate, with cooler temperatures and higher rainfall compared to Ribera del Duero. The region is known for its rolling hills and varied soils, which can result in wines with a wide range of flavors and aromas.
Portugal
Tempranillo is a grape variety that is widely grown in Portugal, where it is used to produce a range of red wines. It is particularly popular in the Douro Valley region, which is known for its production of Port wine. In Portugal, Tempranillo is known as Tinto Roriz, and it is often blended with other grape varieties, such as Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franc, to produce Port wine.
Tempranillo wines from Portugal are known for their bright fruit flavors and aromas, as well as their structure and depth. They can range in style from light and fruity to full-bodied and tannic, depending on the terroir, winemaking techniques, and aging regimen.
In addition to its use in Port wine production, Tempranillo is also grown for the production of table wines in Portugal. These wines tend to be more medium-bodied and fruit-forward, with flavors and aromas of red fruit, spices, and herbs.
In Conclusion
Overall, Tempranillo is a widely planted and versatile grape variety that is known for producing high-quality red wines with good aging potential. It is an important contributor to the wine industry in Portugal & Spain, and has gained popularity in other regions of the world as well. These wines are highly prized by wine lovers around the world for their quality and complexity.