What Is a Good Spanish Red Wine?

Red wines from Spain are incredibly varied and diverse, making it difficult to decide which ones are the best. The country is home to some of the most iconic and prestigious winemaking regions in the world, such as Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Priorato, and Penedes, to name just a few. This diversity means that Spanish red wines come in all shapes and sizes and can range in price from a few euro to hundreds per bottle.

So, how can you make the right decision if you’re looking for quality Spanish red wine? You must understand the key factors that make Spanish red wines special to determine the best choice. There’s a lot to consider, including the type of grape used to produce the wine, the terroir and microclimate of the region it’s grown in, and the winemaking process employed.

The Grapes

Most Spanish red wines are made from grapes native to the Iberian Peninsula, such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, Monastrell/Mourvèdre, Cariñena, and others. These grapes give Spanish reds their unique character and flavor profile.

Tempranillo is the most widely planted and popular of all the Spanish grapes, and it’s the main component of some of the best Spanish reds, including Rioja and Ribera del Duero. This variety produces aromatic and structured wines with a distinctive tobacco-like taste.

Garnacha is Spain's second most planted variety, and it’s used to produce both white and red wines. It produces intense reds with aromas of blackberry and cherry, as well as hints of licorice and spice.

Monastrell/Mourvèdre is another classic variety primarily used for red wines, and it’s highly valued due to its ability to excel in hot climates. It produces bold and powerful wines that are full of fruit and spice, with tannins that are both smooth and intense.

Cariñena is another popular variety used to make Spanish reds, and it produces wines with distinctive notes of dark fruit, licorice, and spice.

The Terroir and Microclimate

The terroir and microclimate of the Spanish wine-growing regions is other important factor to consider when looking for a good Spanish red wine. The differences between these regions will significantly impact the character and profile of the wines they produce.

Spain’s many different regions are divided into three main climatic zones: North, Central, and South. Each region has its own particular microclimate and soil type that influences the character of the wines it produces.

In the cooler, Northern climates, such as the Basque Country and Galicia, wines tend to be lighter and fruity, with fresh aromas and crisp acidity.

In the Central zones, such as Ribera del Duero and Rioja, wines tend to be more structured and robust, with bold flavors of dark fruit and spice.

In the South, the hot, arid conditions produce full-bodied and powerful wines with intense dark fruit and spice aromas.

The Winemaking Process

The winemaking process is also important for producing quality Spanish red wines. Depending on the region, different winemaking techniques are used to enhance the flavor and character of the grapes used.

In the North, winemakers often opt for a more modern approach, fermenting and aging wines in stainless steel tanks and oak barrels. This process helps to produce wines that are lighter in body and richer in aroma.

In the Central regions, such as Rioja and Ribera del Duero, winemakers employ traditional winemaking techniques, using only small oak barrels and large foudres for aging to help bring out the complex flavors and aromas.

In the South, winemakers may use a combination of oak aging and stainless-steel fermenters. This approach helps bring out the intense fruit flavors and aromas of the grape varieties.

What to Look for in a Good Spanish Red Wine

Now that you understand the key factors that make Spanish red wines special, what should you look for when choosing a good one?

First and foremost, look for wines from grape varieties native to Spain, such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, Monastrell/Mourvèdre, and Cariñena. These grapes provide the unique flavors and aromas that differentiate Spanish reds from those of other countries.

Next, consider the terroir and microclimate of the region the wine is from. Region-specific wines will always have a unique character and flavor that can’t be found elsewhere.

Finally, ensure the winemaking process was done correctly and carefully. Wines aged in oak vessels will have a more complex flavor and aroma, while stainless-steel fermented wines will be lighter and fruitier.

Conclusion

Choosing a good Spanish red wine can be difficult, with so many diverse and unique wines available. But with a little research and an understanding of the key factors that influence the style and character of the wines, it’s easy to narrow down the selection and find the perfect red for any occasion. Remember to look for wines made from native grapes, from regions with the perfect terroir and microclimate, and produced using the right winemaking techniques!