Tempranillo is a native red grape varietal from Spain. Rioja is the Spain's best known wine region, and Tempranillo is a key grape variety of Rioja's wine. However it is widely grown and thriving in many other regions. Depending where it is grown, it may be known by different names; such as in the region Castilla-Leon where it is known as Tinto de Toro, or Tinto Fino from the region of Ribera del Duero. However many exported wines do state the Tempranillo name on the label to help international consumers.

Traditionally, Rioja's wine was aged in American oak barrels. However now, all over Spain old wine making rules are being broken, many wineries started to use French oak that gives wine more spice and less vanilla flavour. As well stainless steel and controlled-temperature fermentation produces impressive fruity wines. In addition Tempranillo has been allowed to shine as a single variety wine versus and blend and it is delicious.

This wine will vary in taste depending if it is young or old, aged in American or French barrels.

Look for flavours of strawberries or other fruit, the American barrels may produce vanilla flavours. If held in French barrels, wine may show more spicy flavours. Usually the wine will have low acidity and low tannins hence a nice easy drinking wine.

Many Australian winemakers in recent years have taken interest in Tempranillo grape variety. Look for them in your local wine store and compare how different or similarly this type of wine tastes.




 

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