Spanish wine

Spanish wine is the product of fermented grapes grown in the country of Spain, one of the world's largest wine producers. The country's diverse geography and climate, along with its rich history, have contributed to the wide range of wine styles produced.

History

The history of Spanish wine dates back over 3000 years, with the first vineyards planted by the Phoenicians in the region now known as Andalusia. The Romans later expanded viticulture across the peninsula, and the wines produced were highly prized throughout the Roman Empire.

Regions

Spain is divided into several wine regions, each with its own unique characteristics and styles of wine. Some of the most notable include:

• Rioja: Known for its high-quality red wines made primarily from the Tempranillo grape.
• Ribera del Duero: Famous for its robust, full-bodied red wines also made from Tempranillo.
• Priorat: A region in Catalonia known for its powerful red wines made from a blend of grape varieties.
• Rías Baixas: Located in Galicia, this region is famous for its white wines made from the Albariño grape.

Grape Varieties

Spain is home to a wide range of grape varieties, many of which are indigenous to the country. Some of the most important include:

• Tempranillo: The most widely planted red grape variety in Spain, used in many of the country's most famous wines.
• Garnacha: A versatile red grape variety that can produce a wide range of wine styles, from light and fruity to rich and full-bodied.
• Albariño: A white grape variety primarily grown in Galicia, known for its aromatic, high-acid wines.
• Verdejo: A white grape variety grown in the Rueda region, producing fresh, aromatic wines with high acidity.

Production Methods

Spanish wine production methods vary widely depending on the region and the style of wine being produced. However, some common techniques include:

• Oak aging: Many Spanish wines, particularly reds, are aged in oak barrels to add complexity and tannin structure.
• Malolactic fermentation: This process, which converts harsh malic acid into softer lactic acid, is commonly used in Spanish red wine production.
• Traditional method sparkling wine production: Used to produce Cava, Spain's most famous sparkling wine.

Classification

Spanish wines are classified according to the Denominación de Origen (DO) system, which regulates the geographical origin, grape varieties and production methods used. There are also higher quality categories, such as DO Pago (single estate wines) and DO Calificada (regions with a proven track record of consistent quality).

See Also

• List of Spanish wine regions
• Spanish cuisine
• History of Spain