Tempranillo (Tinta Roriz)

Tempranillo is a red wine grape variety that is widely recognized as one of Spain's most important and emblematic varieties. The grape is grown in many regions throughout Spain, and is also found in regions of Portugal, Italy and Australia. It is known for producing wines with high levels of tannins and acidity, as well as a distinctive flavor profile. This grape variety makes the best fine wines and table wines in Spain. The wine making process with low intervention is the mark of the Iberian peninsula. Tempranillo wine paired with dishes like roast lamb made a perfect combination between this red grape and the red fruit flavour on the meat.

History of Tempranillo

The origin of Tempranillo is believed to be in Spain, with the earliest known references to the variety appearing in the 16th century. The name "Tempranillo" is derived from the Spanish word "tempra" which means "early ripening," and the variety is known for its ability to ripen early in the season. The grape has been a staple of Spanish winemaking for centuries, and is still one of the most widely planted varieties in the country.

Tempranillo Origin

Tempranillo is believed to be a cross between the grape varieties Cencibel and Garnacha Tinta. It is a late-ripening variety, and tends to be very resistant to disease. It is a vigorous variety, and typically produces large yields of high-quality fruit.

Best Regions to tempranillo wine taste

Tempranillo is most commonly known for its role in the production of red wines in Spain, where it is the base of many well-known wines such as Rioja and Ribera del Duero. In Portugal, Tempranillo is known as Tinta Roriz and is the base of Port wines. In Italy, Tempranillo is known as Uva di Troia and is used in the production of red wines in the regions of Puglia and Campania. Tempranillo is also found in Australia, where it is known as Tempranillo Blanco, and is used in the production of white wines.

Ribera del Duero Region

Ribera del Duero is a region in north-central Spain that is best known for its production of red wines made from the Tempranillo grape. The region is located on the banks of the Duero River, and is home to some of Spain's most renowned wineries. The region has a long history of winemaking, and is renowned for its high-quality Tempranillo wines.

Ribera del Duero Tempranillo wines are known for their intense dark fruit flavors, full body, and firm tannins. The wines are typically aged in french oak and american oak, which adds complexity and layers of complexity to the wines. The region is also known for its high-quality white wines, which are made from the indigenous varieties Verdejo and Albillo. Ribera del Duero wines are typically high in alcohol, with some wines reaching up to 15% ABV.

Ribera del Duero is home to some of Spain's most famous wineries, including Vega Sicilia, Bodegas Pesquera, and Emilio Moro. These wineries produce some of Spain's most sought-after wines, with prices reaching up to hundreds of dollars per bottle. The region is also home to a number of smaller, family-run wineries that produce wines of excellent quality at more affordable prices.

La Rioja Region

La Rioja is a region in north-central Spain that is best known for its production of red wines made from the Tempranillo grape. The region is located on the banks of the Ebro River, and is home to some of Spain's most renowned wineries. The region has a long history of winemaking, and is renowned for its high-quality Tempranillo wines.

La Rioja Tempranillo wines are known for their intense dark fruit flavors, medium-high acidity, and moderate tannins. The wines are typically aged in french oak and american oak, which adds complexity and layers of complexity to the wines. The region is also known for its high-quality white wines, which are made from the indigenous varieties Viura and Malvasia. La Rioja wines are typically medium-bodied, with alcohol levels ranging from 12.5% to 14%.

La Rioja is home to some of Spain's most famous wineries, including López de Heredia, Bodegas Muga, and Bodegas Ysios. These wineries produce some of Spain's most sought-after wines, with prices reaching up to hundreds of dollars per bottle. The region is also home to a number of smaller, family-run wineries that produce wines of excellent quality at more affordable prices. Pairing this amazing red wine

Tempranillo is a versatile grape variety that pairs well with many different types of food. The high tannin levels in Tempranillo make it a great match for beef, lamb, and game dishes. The high acidity levels in the wines make them perfect for pairing with tomato-based dishes, as well as grilled or roasted vegetables.

Tempranillo Tasting Profile

Tempranillo wine tend to be full-bodied, with bright fruit flavors of cherry, plum, and raspberry. The wines have moderate tannins and moderate acidity, with a long, lingering finish. The wines often have a spicy, earthy quality and can be quite complex in flavor.

Tempranillo vs Tinta Roriz

Tempranillo and Tinta Roriz are two varieties of the same grape, but there are some key differences between the two. Tempranillo is the more widely recognized variety and is used in the production of red wines in Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Australia. Tinta Roriz, on the other hand, is used mainly in the production of Port wines in Portugal. The two varieties have a similar flavor profile, but Tinta Roriz tends to have a more tannic structure and a slightly more intense flavor profile.

Most Famous Tempranillo Producers

There are many producers of high-quality Tempranillo wines throughout the world. In Spain, some of the most notable producers include Bodegas Riojanas, Bodegas Muga, Bodegas Valduero, and Bodegas Marqués de Riscal. In Portugal, some of the most notable producers include Quinta do Noval, Niepoort, and Ramos Pinto. In Italy, some of the most notable producers are Antinori, Marchese Antinori, and Tasca d'Almerita. In Australia, some of the most notable producers include Howard Park, d'Arenberg, and Henschke.

Most Famous Tempranillo Vines

1. Vega Sicilia "Unico" Tempranillo

2. Bodegas Muga "Prado Enea" Tempranillo

3. Bodegas Artadi "Vinas de Gain" Tempranillo

4. Marques de Riscal "Reserva" Tempranillo

5. Bodegas Ysios "Reserva" Tempranillo

6. Ramon Bilbao "Crianza" Tempranillo

7. Bodegas Nekeas "Viña Zaco" Tempranillo

8. Bodegas Remírez de Ganuza "Reserva" Tempranillo

9. Bodegas Palacios Remondo "La Montesa"

10. Bodegas Riscal "Vendimia Seleccionada"