Red Wine From Spain
Curious about Spanish red wines? We got you covered with answers to your questions, regional info, and of course, some delicious recommendations!
What is Spanish Wine?
Spanish wine refers to the wine produced in Spain, a country with a long history of winemaking that dates back to the Roman era. Spanish wine is known for its diverse styles, unique grape varieties, and high quality. In recent years, Spanish wines have gained popularity among wine enthusiasts and critics, who appreciate their complexity, depth, and affordability compared to wines from other regions. Additionally, Spain has been investing in improving the quality of its wines and promoting its wine regions, which has helped to increase their popularity globally.
What makes Spanish Red Wine so good?
Spanish wine is often praised for its exceptional quality, which is due to a number of factors. Firstly, Spain has a diverse range of terroirs, which means that different grape varieties thrive in different regions. Secondly, many Spanish winemakers use traditional winemaking techniques that have been passed down through generations. Finally, Spanish wine is often aged for longer than wines from other countries, which gives it a unique and complex flavor profile.
What are the most popular types of Spanish Red Wines?
Some of the most popular types of Spanish red wines include Rioja, Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Priorat. Rioja is a red wine that is made from Tempranillo grapes, while Tempranillo itself is a versatile grape variety that is used to make both red and white wines. Garnacha is another red grape variety that is known for its bold and fruity flavor, while Priorat is a region in Catalonia that produces high-quality red wines. Albariño is a white grape variety that is grown primarily in the Galicia region, while Cava is a sparkling wine that is made using the traditional method.
What are the Spanish wine regions?
Spain is divided into several wine regions, each with its own unique terroir and grape varieties. Some of the most well-known regions include Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Priorat, Rías Baixas, and Jerez. Rioja is located in the north of Spain and is known for its Tempranillo-based red wines, while Ribera del Duero is located in the Castilla y León region and produces full-bodied red wines. Priorat is a small region in Catalonia that is known for its high-quality red wines, while Rías Baixas is located in Galicia and is known for its crisp, refreshing white wines made from Albariño grapes. Jerez is located in the Andalusia region and produces fortified wines such as Sherry.
The 10 Best Spanish Wines
Now that you have a little background on the Spanish wine scene, let’s get to the wines! Check out 10 of our favorite Spanish wines and make this the spring of Spain!
La Rioja Alta Vina Alberdi Rioja
This Spanish wine has a beautiful ruby red color with an aroma of ripe fruit and vanilla. On the palate, it has a perfect balance of fruit and oak, with a long and elegant finish. It is a classic Rioja wine that is perfect for any occasion.
Muga Reserva Rioja
Muga Reserva is a rich and complex wine with aromas of dark fruit, spice, and vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied with a silky texture and flavors of ripe fruit, chocolate, and tobacco. The wine has a long and elegant finish, making it perfect to pair with grilled meats and stews.
Campo Viejo Tempranillo Rioja
This Spanish wine has a bright cherry red color with aromatic hints of violet, lavender, vanilla, cedar, and spice. On the palate, it is well-structured with a balanced acidity and flavors of red fruit and spices. The finish is long and smooth, making it an excellent wine to pair with cheese or grilled meats.
Lopez de Heredia Tondonia Red Reserva
This Spanish red wine originates from the renowned Rioja region, boasting a 75% tempranillo blend. Its color is a vibrant red leading slightly towards amber tones. On the nose, it presents light textures with hints of vanilla, red cherry, and dried berry. The wine is rich, smooth, and dry, with a well-developed character that remains fresh. Firm tannins provide structure, ensuring a balanced and satisfying experience with a lingering finish.
Marques de Riscal Reserva Rioja
Marques de Riscal Reserva is a full-bodied wine with aromas of black fruit, spices, and vanilla. On the palate, it is well-structured with a balanced acidity and flavors of ripe fruit and oak. The finish is long and elegant, making it perfect to pair with grilled meats and stews.
Numanthia Termes Tinta de Toro
Another highly rated wine, Termes is a vibrant expression of Toro wines, showcasing a refreshing departure from tradition with its balanced with its robustness, freshness, and liveliness. This Spanish red wine offers ripe fruit aromas of blackberry, dried blueberry, and cranberry, with subtle notes of dried herbs, spices, and cocoa powder. The palate is restrained yet nuanced, with a creamy texture and fine tannins leading to a supple finish.
Marques de Caceres Crianza Rioja
Marques de Caceres Crianza is a medium-bodied wine with aromas of ripe fruit, vanilla, and spices. On the palate, it is well-balanced with a silky texture and flavors of black fruit and oak. The finish is long and smooth, making it an excellent wine to pair with grilled meats or pasta dishes.
Beronia Gran Reserva Rioja
Beronia Gran Reserva hails from Rioja Alta, crafted exclusively during exceptional vintages from the region’s oldest vines. A blend primarily centered around tempranillo, it undergoes a 24-month aging process in French oak followed by an additional 3 years in the bottle. The wine is a deep maroon and displays different aromas from fruit like strawberry and blackberry to hints of cocoa and black licorice. It is a complex and balanced wine that pairs well with red meat and chocolate.
Harvey’s Bristol Cream
Harvey’s Bristol Cream is a sweet and rich sherry with aromas of dried fruit, caramel, and nuts. On the palate, it is smooth and velvety with flavors of raisins, figs, and toffee. The finish is long and sweet, making it perfect to pair with desserts or as an after-dinner drink.
Juan Gil Silver
Juan Gil Silver is an organic red with big aromas Spice, cedar, toast and chocolate are layered with blackberry and plum. On the palate, it is well-structured with a balanced acidity and flavors of black fruit, chocolate, and oak. The finish is long and smooth, making it an excellent wine to pair with grilled meats or pasta dishes.
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