Tempranillo - Spanish wines

Tempranillo is a variety of "Vitis vinifera", a red grape widely grown in its native Spain and commonly used in winemaking. The grape ripens several weeks earlier than most red varietals, hence its name, which is the diminutive of the spanish temprano. Tempranillo is often referred to as Spain's "noble grape" and is the main variety in Rioja wines.

Tempranillo is native to northern Spain and widely cultivated as far south as La Mancha. The two major regions that grow Tempranillo are Rioja in North Central Spain and Ribera del Duero, (which is not the south). Substantial quantities are also grown in the Penedès (Catalunya), Navarra and Valdepeñas regions. The grape plays a role in the production of wines in two regions of Portugal, central Alentejo and Douro. In Alentejo Central it is known as Aragonêz and used in red table wine blends of variable quality, while in Douro it is known as Tinta Roriz and mainly used in blends to make port wine.


Tempranillo also grown in Argentina and Mexico, and in Uruguay, Dominican Republic, Australia, EEUU (California, Oregon and New Mexico).

In a glass: A Tempranillo varietal wine showing typical intense ruby coloring.

Author ramm Table-booking.com View profile Add to friends

edited by KatjaB View profile Add to friends