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Explore the Best Wineries in Rioja Alavesa

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Rioja Alavesa is the smallest sub-region, located between the Ebro River and the imposing rocky mass of the Sierra Cantabria. It is well-known for its red and white wines. Today, Rioja Alavesa is home to over 200 wineries, with growers cultivating approximately 12,000 hectares. Unique bioclimatic conditions, rich culture and medieval architecture, a variety of historical and modern wineries, and a thousand-year-old unique wine-making technique give Rioja Alavesa wines worldwide recognition. We can taste wines ranging from vintages aged in medieval wine caves to the wine produced in the region's most cutting-edge facilities. 

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Where is the Rioja Alavesa Wine sub-region?

Rioja Alavesa is located north of the Ebro River and shares territory with the Spanish Basque Country. It is the northernmost of the three sub-regions of Rioja, bordered to the southwest by Rioja Alta and to the southeast by Rioja Oriental (formerly Rioja Baja). 

Rioja Alavesa Wine Map

Rioja Alavesa Wine Map

The History of Rioja Alavesa

Rioja Alavesa was inhabited more than 4,700 years ago, and many archaeological remains have been discovered, including the La Hoya Settlement, which dates from 1500 years before Christ.

The Rioja Alavesa wine's origins are inextricably linked to the history and evolution of its land. The Roman Empire introduced enological techniques and built infrastructure for wine production, but the process was not always carried out in the most efficient manner.

Rioja Alavesa's viticulture flourished in the 15th century, but the wine began to be commodified and stored in cellars beneath houses during the Modern Age. Municipal policies were implemented to control transactions and monitor grape movement.

During the 19th century, French buyers were drawn to this region because their vineyards were plagued by powdery mildew and phylloxera. They built more significant, more commercially oriented wineries in the area. 

The Origin Designation Rioja was established in 1925, and since 1991, the production areas, grape varieties grown, maximum allowed production or elaboration, and ageing techniques have been regulated.

Terroir of Rioja Alavesa

Rioja Alavesa terroir is distinct due to its location, climate, and soils. Its vineyards are located at high altitudes, resulting in cooler temperatures that aid in the acquisition and retention of moderate acid levels and good colour. The soil is rich in chalky clay, limestone, sand and other elements that cannot be found elsewhere, producing wines with character and extract. 

Grape Varieties in Rioja Alavesa

It is safe to say that Rioja Alavesa is the home of Tempranillo, which is the dominant grape variety in the region. They are considered the best red wine quality grapes in the world.

Along with Tempranillo, other red varieties include Garnacha, which is known for its freshness and versatility, Graciano, which is known for its distinctive aromas, colour, acidity, and intensity in the mouth; and Mazuelo, which is known for its abundant tannins, high acidity, and long-lasting colour. They are commonly used as blending partners for Tempranillo wines.

Rioja Alavesa also produces a small amount of white wine from Viura (Macabeo) grapes. It is grown in most wine regions of Northern Spain, and it is one of the grapes used in the traditional production of cava wines in Catalonia. Despite its neutrality, it can produce interesting herby and spicy white wines.

Rioja Alavesa Grapes have a distinctive colour, a unique taste and aroma that is both naturally sweet and fruity, with a hint of berry. This wine is ideal for sipping and drinking or can be served with most dishes.

 Food to pair with Rioja Alavesa wines

 Potatoes “ a la Riojana

It is a potato with chorizo which is a  popular dish in the Basque countries of Rioja and Álava. It includes bell peppers, chorizo sausage, and potatoes. The sauce is simple and thickened with potato starch.  Other ingredients such as bay leaves, pimento, and mushrooms are optional.  For vegetarians, chorizo can be replaced with other vegetables. Red wines enhance this dish.

“Pochas” (beans) with asparagus

This is an excellent stew that can be found in every home in Rioja during the cold winter. Its main ingredients are spicy chorizo (a must in their cuisine), a variety of vegetables, bacon, and tender pork meat.

Patatas a la riojana

Cod’’ a la Riojana

 When fridges did not exist, the only fish available in Rioja was salty preserved cod fish. The cod Rioja is a traditional Riojan dish of cod stew served with an accompaniment, such as a pepper and tomato sauce.  It gets its distinctive red colour from this sauce.

Places to visit in Rioja Alavesa

La Rioja Alavesa is the ideal destination for a wine tourism trip. Impossible landscapes of vineyards and medieval villages nestled between the Basque Country, Navarra, and La Rioja are some of the region’s key features.

Laguardia

Laguardia is the capital of Rioja Alavesa and one of Spain's most picturesque villages. This Alava small town is a sensory overload. The Rioja Alavesa region's medieval streets, churches, and diverse gastronomic offerings are a real treat for visitors. Every corner has a medieval atmosphere, but the church of Santa Mara de Los Reyes and its entrance is undeniably authentic treasures.

The town of Labraza

Labraza is a Basque fortified village that was awarded the World Walled Cities Award in 2008. King Sancho VII of Navarre founded it at the end of the 12th century on a hill over 600 meters high. It has small squares, narrow streets, passageways, and cellars that are still in the village's subsoil. Other attractions in this village include the village fountain, also known as La Fuente del Moro, and La Nevera de las Llanas, which is located at 910 meters above sea level near the border with Navarre.

Elciego

Elciego is situated in the historical territory of Alava, in the southern region of Rioja Alavesa The town is home to numerous high-quality wineries, with an unrivalled selection. Several architectural works, including the parish church of San Andrés and the Virgen de la Plaza hermitage from the 17th century, can be seen. It has appropriately laid out streets and is connected by numerous picturesque narrow streets filled with palaces and lordly houses, making it every wine traveller's dream.

Interesting facts about Rioja Alavesa

Haro, the region's wine capital, is just a thirty minutes drive from Rioja Alavesa. On St. Peter's Day, thousands of locals and tourists gather for the La Batalla de Vino de Haro wine festival. A wine fight, where people climb a nearby mountain and throw red wine at each other, is one of the most well-known events.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rioja Alavesa

What are Rioja Alavesa characteristics? 

Rioja Alavesa is a Spanish wine produced in the municipality of Rioja. It is the world’s oldest wine, produced since the 10th century.

What is the Rioja Alavesa festival?

The Rioja Alavesa festival is a wine and food festival that draws thousands of visitors each year.  It is held annually in June and is attended by thousands of people.

Why do people love Rioja grapes?

Rioja grapes are Spain's pride and joy. They are a good source of antioxidants and a good source of vitamin C. They are also known to be very juicy and aromatic, with a distinct flavour that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Is the Rioja region Spain's number one area for grape growing?

The region produces grapes that are considered to be among the best in Spain, with a strong tradition of winemaking dating back to Roman times.

Map of Wineries in Rioja Alavesa

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Just getting started on your wine journey, or jumping back in?
Taste through a selection of a great local wines.

Wineries in Rioja Alavesa