When an invitation requesting participation at a Rioja Master Class and walkaround tasting in Chicago is received AND I just happen to be in the city at the time, the response is a heartfelt YES! As we know, there is never an ending point to learning about wine. And what I explored on that day in May were the fundamental elements of Rioja that contribute to its place as one of the world’s top regions, that highlight the ongoing importance of sustainability, and throw the spotlight on new developments and styles that are evolving even as I write. This was a perfect day filled with conversation and wine from this storied region of Spain.
Photo Credit: Rioja Trade
Where is Rioja?
The thousand year old Rioja region is located in northern Spain on both banks of the Ebro river and nestled among the Sierra de Cantabria and Sierra de la Demanda mountain ranges. It is comprised of three sub-zones: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Oriental. In Rioja, Tempranillo is king, but other varieties shine, too.
Rioja Alta is the largest and best known sub-zone for the total number of plantings. With strong Atlantic Ocean influences, varied soils and a gentle terrain, Tempranillo thrives. Located in Basque country, Rioja Alavesa is the smallest sub-zone with rugged topography. Tempranillo is grown on terraces and slopes atop calcareous and limestone clay. Rioja Orientale (formerly known as Rioja Baja) enjoys a Mediterranean Sea influence. Soils are of alluvial and clay and mountain ranges boast some of the highest vineyards in the region. In Rioja Orientale, even Garnacha has found a home.
Photo Credit: Rioja Trade
With over 66,000 registered vineyards, 144 municipalities, and more than 600 wineries, Rioja is the region that “markets the largest numbers of liters and bottles of wine in Spain and the one that exports the most Spanish wine” – Rioja wines are found in 136 countries. In 1991, Rioja became the first wine region in Spain to receive the Denominacion de Origen Calificada (DOCa), the highest designation in Spain; it was the first region to receive DO status in 1925.
Fourteen authorized grape varieties, 5 red and 9 white, are cultivated in Rioja. Reds include Tempranillo (covering a vast 80% of the area), Garnacha Tinta, Graciano, Mazuelo (also known as Carignan), and Maturana Tinta (also known as Trousseau). White varieties are Viura, Malvasia, Garnacha Blanca, Tempranillo Blanco, Chardonnay, Turruntes, Sauvignon Blanc, Maturana Blanca, and Verdejo.
Mind the Classifications of Rioja and Seals of Authenticity
When you’re ready to shop for a Rioja that’s perfect for your next barbecue, tapas night or special occasion, mind the following descriptions that are noted on the bottle’s label. And remember, when Rioja is released, it’s ready to drink – there’s no need for further aging.
Generico: This is a young wine with minimal aging. Wines tend to be fresh and fruit forward that are delicious with a cheese plate or light pasta dishes.
Crianza: Red wines are aged over 1 year in the barrel whereas whites and rosés are aged for more than 6 months in barrel. Consider a Crianza to pair with juicy burgers, lasagna or eggplant parmesan.
Reserva: Often thought of as the region’s “flagship wine” with moderate tannins and lip-smacking flavors, rich dishes for any occasion will be elevated with a bottle of Reserva. Reds are aged 3 or more years with at least 1 year in the barrel and 6 months in the bottle. Whites and rosés are aged for two or more years with at least 6 months in the barrel.
Gran Reserva: Only superior vintage years produce Gran Reserva Wines that are aged longer than the others. A holiday or other special occasion wine? Of course! Reds are aged for 5 or more years with at least 2 years in barrel and 2 years in the bottle. Whites and rosés are aged 4 or more years with at least 6 months in the barrel. It’s time to open that bottle!
Exciting Developments in Rioja are Happening Now
It’s one thing to review facts about a region and solidify those in our mind. It’s another to learn about what’s to come. With the region of Rioja, we have much to be excited about!
Producers are recovering 100+ year old vineyards and terroir-driven wines (“Grower Rioja”) whereby origin becomes as important as aging. We’ll see more white and sparkling wines from Rioja as well as single varietal wines being produced. Currently, there’s a move away from new oak in the barrel programs and towards neutral vessels such as cement and amphora. And…Garnacha from Rioja may just be the “next big thing.” Stay tuned!
Notable Rioja Wines to Find
During the walkaround tasting, I found myself intrigued by not only the red wines but the white and sparkling wines offered. I had a wonderful time tasting and learning more about all of the wines produced. Enjoy the collage of beautiful wines and start thinking about which you’d like sip.
It’s apparent that Rioja continues to deliver affordable wines of high quality. Their sustainability efforts are noteworthy and its future continues to be bright. When you’re strolling through the aisles of your favorite wine shop, grab a bottle or two of Rioja – red, rosé, white and/or sparkling – and enjoy.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
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