RIOJA WINE REGION
History
Rioja has been growing and making wine since its occupation by the Romans. The true discovery of the region came in the latter half of the 19th century when Bordeaux wine merchants (in response to the Phylloxera devastation in France) began to explore northern Spain in search of new vineyards. Upon discovery of the rich lands of Rioja, they planted roots and began the history of this world renowned region. Long recognized as one of the world’s classic wine regions, Spain’s most important district—Rioja—is experiencing a richly deserved renaissance. The last two decades of experimentation and modernization have resulted in a surge in quality, catapulting the wines into the international spotlight.
Geography
Stretching 75 miles along the Ebro River in northern Spain, Rioja is divided into two distinct growing regions. The higher altitude regions to the north, Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa, are marked by moderate weather and a fair amount of moisture while Rioja Baja to the east experiences hot, dry weather. As most of the wines comprise a blend of the two zones, the wines exhibit both fully ripe fruit alongside elegance and balance.
Grapes
The majority of the grape varieties in Rioja are red, led by Tempranillo, followed by Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano. With a nod to international varieties, a handful of wineries, known in Spain as Bodegas, have also planted Cabernet Sauvignon.