Possible the most recognized and famous wine region in Spain. Rioja is one of the first established wine regions in Spain with history tracing its first wine made to around 873 A.D. La Rioja was classified to DOC status in 1991 as they were producing the best quality wine in Spain. In this mountainous region, the main grape that is planted is the famous Tempranillo. Wines from this region are the class of Spain, with the top cuvees achieving superb finesse, perfect balance, and the smoothest finish you can taste. Wineries in this region are producing both modern wines as well as old school wines (old school = traditional). Modern wines are made using newer techniques, such as newer barrels, higher alcohol levels, and getting released right after they are bottled. Old school wines are made the old way, wine stays in the barrel longer, alcohol levels are lower and the wines are usually released several years after being bottled to achieve maximum drinkability after release. Top 5 wineries in this region are: Bodegas Lan, Bodegas Muga, Bodegas Ysios, Bodegas Contador and Bodegas R. Lopez de Heredia.

KEY INFORMATION ABOUT RIOJA

• Official Denominación de Origen Calificada Year: 1991
• Acres Under Vine: 123,000
• Soil: Alluvial, Marl, Clay, Limestone
• Vineyard Elevation: 820 to 1640 Feet
• Major Grapes (Red): Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano, Mazuelo
• Major Grapes (White): Viura, Malvasía and Garnacha Blanca
• Estimated Wineries: 150

WEATHER IN RIOJA

SELECTION OF RIOJA WINES

Bodegas Ramon Bilbao, Crianza
Region: Rioja
Grape Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
Usually Scores: 88-91
Price: $13

Vina Zaco
Region: Rioja
Grape Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
Usually Scores: 88-90
Price: $14

Marques de Caceres, Crianza
Region: Rioja
Grape Varietal: 85% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacha & Graciano
Usually Scores: 86-90
Price: $14