Rioja

Rioja is one of Spain’s most famous and historic wine regions, located in the northern part of the country along the Ebro River. Known primarily for its red wines, Rioja’s reputation rests on the use of Tempranillo, often blended with Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo. The wines are categorized by aging periods: Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva, offering diverse styles from fresh and fruity to rich and complex.

The region’s terroir is incredibly diverse, spanning three sub-regions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental. Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa are known for higher altitudes and cooler climates, producing more elegant and balanced wines. Rioja Oriental, being warmer, tends to yield riper, fuller-bodied wines. This variety makes Rioja a favorite among wine lovers seeking complexity and depth.

With a winemaking history that dates back to Roman times, Rioja has evolved to embrace modern techniques while honoring tradition. From earthy reds with aging potential to fresh, citrusy whites, Rioja continues to be a cornerstone of Spanish wine culture, celebrated both domestically and internationally.

Here are the wines from Rioja I’ve tried: