Interesting facts about Tempranillo

Tempranillo is the main grape in the Spanish wine region of Rioja. In other Spanish regions it could be found under the names Tinto Fino, Tinta del País, Aragones, Valdepeñas, or Tinta de Toro. Tempranillo is also grown in Portugal, where it is included in Port wine under the name Tinta Roriz.

Where is Tempranillo from?

Tempranillo originates from Spain, which is also its main producer, followed by Portugal in the Old World. More precisely, Tempranillo is one of the main red grapes in Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Douro wine regions. Today the grape is grown also in countries such as France, Argentina, Australia, the US, and Mexico.

Interesting story about Tempranillo

Tempranillo in Spanish means early. The grape was called in such manner since it tends to ripen much earlier than the other grapes in Spain. It is considered to be native to Rioja, however across the whole Spain it is referred as "the noble grape". Another interesting story: for quite some time Italians were growing the grape they commonly referred to as Malvasia Nera, which they believed was a local Italian variety - not until the DNA research on Malvasia Nera was carried out, which proved that the grape was nothing but a genetical clone of the old Spanish Tempranillo that had been brought to Tuscany during the Roman times.

Tempranillo grape characteristics

The roots of Tempranillo easily absorb potassium, which leads to an increased acid content in the grape. This grape comes from sunny climates and grows very well being surrounded by mountains that protect it from the wind. It loves sunlight as it helps to reach the maximum sugar level. On the other hand, cold night temperatures help a lot for the tannins and acid to reach their perfect balance point.

Tempranillo Wines

Tempranillo aged in oak barrels makes a wine that improves with age and gives aromas of plum, tobacco, and leather. Whereas young Tempranillo gives us fresh and fruity tones with diverse palate of flavors. Tempranillo can be find in almost all wines from Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions. Tempranillo is usually blended with Grenache, Mazuela, Graciano, and, even, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Tinta Roriz (Portuguese name for Tempranillo) is one of the main grape variety in Port wine blend.

What to pair with Tempranillo?

The dominant flavors of Tempranillo go well with beef or lamb. Beside that, its great versatility gives ability to pair wine perfectly with tomato-based dishes like pasta or grilled vegetables.

Where to find the best Tempranillo wines

Rioja

Here are some wineries in Rioja where you can taste the best Tempranillo:

Douro Valley

Here are some wineries in Douro Valley where you can taste the best Tempranillo wines:

Ribera del Duero

Here are some wineries in Ribera del Duero where you can taste the best Tempranillo wines:

Frequently Asked Questions about Tempranillo

What is Tempranillo?

Tempranillo is a red grape variety. It is one of the most important variety in such regions as Rioja and Ribera del Duero in Spain and Douro in Portugal.

How to pronounce Tempranillo?

Tempranillo is a Spanish word. So the correct pronounciation is tem-prah-NEE-lyoh.

Is Rioja Tempranillo?

Rioja is one of two the most distinctive regions in Spain which has DOC status. Tempranillo is the most planted grape in Rioja. Thus often Rioja wine and Tempranillo wine might be the same wine but not always: in Rioja wines can be produced from other varities as well as Tempranillo can be used for wine production in other regions and countries.

What is Tempranillo similar to?

Some wine connoisseurs admit that Tempranillo has many common features with Cabernet Sauvignon: they both have full body, good acidity and black currants and dark fruits in the palate.

Is Tempranillo dry or sweet?

Tempranillo is usually used in production of dry still red wine.

Where is Tempranillo primarily grown?

Tempranillo is primarily grown in Spain, particularly in regions such as Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Toro. It is also cultivated in other countries, including Portugal (where it is known as Tinta Roriz) and regions of the New World.

What are the typical characteristics of Tempranillo wines?

Tempranillo wines often display flavors of red fruits (such as cherry and plum), notes of tobacco and leather, and a range of spice and earthy undertones. They can vary in style from lighter and fruit-forward to more structured and complex wines with aging potential.