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Rioja is a wine region in Spain, where the wines are made using grapes grown in La Rioja, Navarre and Basque.
Until recently red Rioja wines were made only from Tempranillo, Garnacha tinta, Mazuelo and Graciano grapes. Maturana Tinta has recently been approved by the Regulating Council of the D.O.Ca to to be added to the authorised list.
Similarly white Rioja wines were made from Viura, Malvasía and Garnacha blanca with Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc and Verdejo now also approved for the regions wines.
Despite these new changes, Rioja wines continue to be dominated by Tempranillo and Viura which together account for over 80% of all grapes used to make wine in the region.
Rioja may not be as well-known as its more famous peers such as Bordeaux and Burgundy, yet its age-worthiness is comparable. Meaning, one can buy a top quality bottle of Rioja that is nicely aged for far less than similar-rated bottles of Bordeaux or Burgundy.
The wine takes its name from the Spanish region of Rioja, where it is produced. Located in North Central Spain, the region is split into three sub-regions and home to the local grape, Tempranillo, which is the main component of Rioja.
The four classifications of Rioja wine are Genérico, Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva with the flavours of Rioja ranging from medium to full-bodied with tannins and hints of dark berries, plum, tobacco, and herb.
DOCa Rioja wines are sourced from La Rioja, Pais Vasco, and Navarra, with the majority of grapes grown south of the Ebro River. The blend usually consists of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano. White and rosé Rioja is also available, with Viura (Macabeo) as the predominant grape in white, and Garnacha in rosé.
When it comes to food pairings, fresher Rioja wines go well with savoury meats and hard cheeses. Crianza and Reserva wines are perfect for hearty stews and grilled or braised red meat.
