Rioja (wine)

Rioja is a wine from a region of the same name in Spain. It is one of the most popular and internationally recognized wines from the country. The wine is named after the region of La Rioja, but vineyards in parts of Navarre and the Basque province of Álava are also included in the designation.

History

The history of wine production in the Rioja region dates back to the Roman Empire, when vineyards were first cultivated in the area. However, the modern era of Rioja wine production began in the late 19th century, when phylloxera, a pest that devastated vineyards in France, led French winemakers to the Rioja region.

Production

Rioja wines are primarily made from the Tempranillo grape, which accounts for 75% of the region's production. Other grapes used include Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo. White Rioja wines are also produced, using the Viura, Malvasia, and Garnacha Blanca grapes.

The production of Rioja wine is regulated by the Consejo Regulador de la Denominación de Origen Calificada Rioja, which ensures that all wines labeled as Rioja meet certain quality standards and are produced in the designated region.

Classification

Rioja wines are classified into four categories, based on their aging process: Rioja, Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva. Rioja is the youngest, spending less than a year in an oak barrel. Crianza is aged for at least two years, with at least one year in oak. Reserva is aged for at least three years, with at least one year in oak. Gran Reserva is aged for at least two years in oak and three years in the bottle.

Taste and Pairing

The taste of Rioja wine can vary greatly, depending on the aging process and the blend of grapes used. However, typical flavors include cherry, plum, and vanilla, with older wines developing more complex flavors and aromas. Rioja wines are often paired with meat dishes, particularly lamb and pork, as well as Spanish cheeses and tapas.

See Also

• Spanish wine
• List of Spanish wine regions
• Tempranillo
• Garnacha

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