Tempranillo blanco

Tempranillo Blanco

Tempranillo Blanco grapes before veraison

Tempranillo Blanco is a white grape variety that originated from a natural mutation of the well-known Tempranillo red grape. This mutation was discovered in 1988 in a vineyard located in Murillo de Río Leza, in the La Rioja region of Spain. The grape is notable for its ability to produce high-quality white wines with distinctive characteristics.

Characteristics

Tempranillo Blanco vines exhibit similar growth patterns to their red counterpart, Tempranillo. The leaves are medium-sized and the clusters are compact, with small to medium-sized berries. The grapes are greenish-yellow in color and tend to ripen early in the season.

The wines produced from Tempranillo Blanco are known for their aromatic intensity, often displaying notes of tropical fruits, citrus, and floral elements. The palate is typically fresh and balanced, with a good level of acidity that makes it suitable for both young wines and those that can benefit from some aging.

Viticulture

Tempranillo vines trained on an end post

Tempranillo Blanco is cultivated primarily in the La Rioja region, where it benefits from the continental climate and diverse soil types. The grape is well-suited to the region's conditions, thriving in both clay and limestone soils.

Viticulturists have found that Tempranillo Blanco requires careful canopy management to ensure optimal sun exposure and air circulation, which helps prevent diseases such as powdery mildew. The grape's early ripening nature means that it can be harvested before the onset of autumn rains, reducing the risk of rot.

Winemaking

In the winery, Tempranillo Blanco is often fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve its fresh and fruity character. Some winemakers choose to age the wine on its lees to enhance its texture and complexity. Oak aging is less common but can add additional layers of flavor, such as vanilla and spice.

The versatility of Tempranillo Blanco allows it to be used in a variety of wine styles, from crisp and refreshing young wines to more structured and complex aged versions. It is also sometimes blended with other white varieties to create unique and balanced wines.

Popularity and Recognition

Since its official recognition as a distinct variety in 2007, Tempranillo Blanco has gained popularity among winemakers and consumers alike. Its unique origin and the quality of the wines it produces have contributed to its growing reputation.

The grape is now included in the official list of varieties permitted in the Rioja DOCa, and its plantings have been steadily increasing as more producers experiment with this intriguing variety.

Related Pages

• Tempranillo
• La Rioja (wine)
• White wine
• Spanish wine