Spain

Buy Spanish wines – variety, enjoyment and tradition from Spain's sunny wine regions

An overview of Spain's wine world

Spanish wines are known worldwide for their variety, tradition and enjoyment. Spain is one of the world's largest wine producers, with numerous wine regions covering the entire Iberian Peninsula. Vineyards stretch across the country, from the sunny south of Andalusia to the cooler north of Galicia.

The range of wines from Spain is impressively broad and includes red wines, white wines, rosé wines and cava, the Spanish sparkling wine. Thanks to the different climate zones, soil conditions and grape varieties, the Spanish wine world offers a range of styles and aromas that leave nothing to be desired.

Spain is not only known for its top wines from regions such as Rioja and Ribera del Duero. Less well-known wine-growing areas such as Castile-La Mancha and Priorat also impress with their high quality and wide selection of characterful wines.

The long history of winegrowing in Spain

Winegrowing in Spain has a history dating back over 3,000 years to the time of the Phoenicians. The Romans also contributed significantly to the spread of viticulture on the Iberian Peninsula and laid the foundations for many of today's wine regions.

During the Moorish rule, wine growing was severely restricted, but after the reconquest of Spain, wine production experienced a renaissance. Monasteries and ecclesiastical institutions played an important role in the cultivation of vines and the dissemination of wine knowledge.

Today, the country looks back on a rich wine tradition that is reflected in both old vineyards and modern production methods. This combination of history and innovation characterises Spanish wines and makes them an important part of the international wine world.

The most important wine regions of Spain – diversity from north to south

The most important facts at a glance

Spain is divided into numerous wine regions, each with its own grape varieties, climatic conditions and styles. Rioja is one of the best-known wine-growing regions and is particularly famous for its red wines made from Tempranillo. The wines from this region are characterised by elegance, fruitiness and ageing potential.

Ribera del Duero, located along the Duero River in Castile and León, is also known for its high-quality red wines. The Tinto Fino grape variety dominates here, a local name for Tempranillo, which produces powerful and structured wines.

Priorat in north-eastern Spain impresses with intense red wines made from Garnacha and Cariñena. The slate soils and harsh climate give the wines depth and minerality. La Mancha, Spain's largest wine region in terms of area, offers both red and white wines and is increasingly focusing on quality rather than quantity.

Galicia in north-western Spain produces fresh white wines from the Albariño grape variety in the Rías Baixas region. These wines impress with their freshness, fruitiness and fine minerality, making them ideal accompaniments to seafood.

The Spanish wine regions in detail

Rioja – Spain's most famous wine region

Rioja is one of Spain's best-known and most traditional wine regions. It is located in the north of the country along the Ebro River and is best known for its red wines made from Tempranillo. The region is divided into Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Oriental, each with different climatic conditions and soil types.

The red wines from Rioja are often characterised by ageing in wooden barrels, which gives them notes of vanilla, leather and spices. In addition to classic red wines, Rioja also produces white and rosé wines that impress with their freshness and fruitiness.

Ribera del Duero – Full-bodied red wines from Castile and León

Ribera del Duero is another renowned wine-growing region, known for its powerful red wines made from Tempranillo, which is often referred to here as Tinto Fino. The vineyards are located on high plateaus along the Duero River, which causes large temperature fluctuations between day and night – a factor that contributes to the intensity of the aromas and the freshness of the wines.

Wines from Ribera del Duero are mostly full-bodied, concentrated and tannic, which gives them excellent ageing potential.

Priorat – Mineral power from Catalonia

In the north-east of Spain, in the region of Catalonia, lies the small but fine wine-growing region of Priorat. This place is known for its unique slate soils, which give the wines their special minerality. Here, the vines grow on steep terraces with barren slate soils known as ‘Llicorella’. This special soil structure shapes the character of the wines and ensures minerality and depth.

The red wines from Priorat, mostly made from Garnacha and Cariñena, are concentrated, powerful and elegant at the same time. The area is one of the few regions in Spain with the highest quality designation ‘Denominación de Origen Calificada’ (DOCa), together with Rioja.

Rías Baixas – home of Albariño

Rías Baixas, located on the Atlantic coast of Galicia, is known for its fresh and aromatic white wines made from the Albariño grape variety. The proximity to the sea gives the wines a maritime character, which is reflected in their salty minerality and crisp acidity.

The white wines from this region are ideal for lovers of fruity, elegant wines and go well with fish and seafood.

La Mancha – The heart of Spanish viticulture

Castile-La Mancha is Spain's largest wine-growing region in terms of area and also has one of the largest vineyards in the world. The region stretches across the central plateau of the Iberian Peninsula and benefits from many hours of sunshine and low rainfall.

La Mancha produces red and white wines as well as cava. In addition to traditional grape varieties such as Tempranillo and Airén, international varieties such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are also found here. Historically, the Airén grape variety was mainly used for the production of brandy and medicinal alcohol.

Other important wine-growing regions

In addition to the big names, Spain has many other exciting wine regions. The Toro area in Castile and León impresses with its full-bodied red wines made from Tinta de Toro, a variant of Tempranillo. The Bierzo region is known for Mencía, a grape variety that produces elegant, fruity red wines with floral notes.

The Mediterranean region of Valencia and the Balearic and Canary Islands also produce characterful wines that broaden the spectrum of Spanish wine.

Grape varieties in Spain – an expression of regional diversity

Tempranillo – the Spanish classic

Tempranillo is Spain's best-known red grape variety and is at home in many important wine regions. It stands for full-bodied, structured red wines with aromas of dark berries, plums, leather and sometimes vanilla from ageing in wooden barrels. These aromas contribute to the unique taste of Tempranillo wines. Tempranillo plays a particularly important role in Rioja and Ribera del Duero, where it is often known by regional names such as Tinto Fino or Tinta del País.

The variety is ideal for ageing into Reservas and Gran Reservas – wines that mature over many years, gaining complexity and depth.

Garnacha – versatile and traditional

Garnacha, also known internationally as Grenache, is a traditional Spanish grape variety that produces both powerful red wines and aromatic rosés. In warmer regions such as Priorat or Castile-La Mancha, it shows its concentrated, spicy side, with notes of cherry, herbs and Mediterranean warmth. The aroma of Garnacha wines is often intense and complex.

Garnacha Blanca, on the other hand, produces full-bodied white wines with floral and exotic notes, often with a present but harmonious acidity.

Other red grape varieties

In addition to indigenous varieties, international grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah are also widely grown in Spanish viticulture. They are often combined with local varieties in cuvées and enrich the range with their global style.

Cabernet Sauvignon brings structure and ageing potential. The grape plays a central role in determining the quality and style of the wine. Merlot provides fruit and softness, while Syrah scores with spice and dark fruit aromas.

Viura, Verdejo and Albariño – white wines with character

Viura, also known as Macabeo, is one of Spain's most widely grown white grape varieties. It is present in many regions and forms the basis for white wines from Rioja, among others. Viura produces fresh, citrus-dominated wines, but can also be developed to be fuller and more complex.

Verdejo, particularly common in the Rueda region, is synonymous with aromatic white wines with aromas of green apple, herbs and lively acidity.

Albariño is the main variety of the Rías Baixas in north-western Spain. The wines are fresh, maritime in character and display notes of white peach, citrus fruits and a salty minerality – perfect for lovers of elegant white wines.

Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and international varieties

International white grape varieties have also gained a foothold in Spanish viticulture. Chardonnay is mainly used in cooler locations and for cava. It produces both fruity and creamy white wines aged in oak barrels.

Sauvignon Blanc is becoming increasingly popular and complements the range of white wines with crisp acidity, citrus aromas and freshness.

Classification and designation of origin in Spanish viticulture

The Spanish wine quality system

Spain has a structured classification system that defines the origin and quality of wines. This classification guarantees the authenticity and quality of each wine. It helps wine lovers navigate the wide range of wines on offer and make an informed choice. As in other European wine-producing countries, origin is an essential criterion for wine style and quality in Spain.

Vino de Mesa – The simple table wine

The lowest level in the Spanish quality system is ‘Vino de Mesa’, the simple table wine. It is not subject to strict regulations regarding origin or grape varieties. These are often uncomplicated wines intended for everyday enjoyment. These products are often straightforward and easily accessible.

Vino de la Tierra – The country wine with regional character

The next level up is ‘Vino de la Tierra’ (VdLT), comparable to the country wine of other countries. These wines come from specific geographical regions and are allowed to indicate their origin on the label. The regulations here are already more specific than for table wine, but still allow winemakers a certain amount of freedom.

Denominación de Origen (DO) – Protected Designation of Origin

The Denominación de Origen (DO) is Spain's best-known designation of origin and guarantees that the wines come from clearly defined regions. There are also specifications regarding the grape varieties used, the cultivation methods and the yields. This classification ensures that the traditions of the respective wine region are preserved.

Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) – The top category

The highest classification in Spain is the Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa), which is only awarded to regions that have demonstrated consistent quality and rigour in production over a long period of time. So far, only Rioja and Priorat have been awarded this status.

Vino de Pago – Single vineyards with a special terroir

A special feature of Spanish viticulture is the designation ‘Vino de Pago’. It identifies wines that come from a clearly defined single vineyard with a unique microclimate and terroir. The requirements for a Vino de Pago are particularly high, which often makes these wines highly sought-after products.

The degrees of maturity: Joven, Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva

Another important element of Spanish wine classification is the indication of the ageing period. This classification describes how long a wine has been stored in the barrel and in the bottle before it goes on sale:

• Joven: Young wines without extended ageing, usually fruity and uncomplicated.
• Crianza: At least two years of ageing, including at least six months in the barrel.
• Reserva: Three years of ageing, including at least twelve months in casks.
• Gran Reserva: Five years of ageing, including at least 18 months in casks and further bottle ageing.

These specifications apply mainly to red wines. The ageing periods for white and rosé wines may vary, but are also regulated.

Wine production in Spain – from the vineyards to the bottle

Spain as one of the world's largest wine-producing countries

With over a million hectares of vineyards, Spain is one of the world's largest wine producers. Compared to other European countries, Spain has a particularly large area under vine. This impressive area is spread across numerous wine regions, ranging from the cool Atlantic climate to the hot Mediterranean region. The different climate zones and soil types create ideal conditions for a wide variety of wine styles and grape varieties.

Spain offers both traditional, handcrafted wines and modern, innovative wines. The broad spectrum ranges from young, fresh white wines to complex, long-aged red wines.

Vine growing on plateaus and steep slopes

A large proportion of Spain's vineyards are located on high plateaus or steep slopes. In regions such as Ribera del Duero and Priorat in particular, the vines grow under extreme conditions. These challenges contribute to the quality and complexity of the wines, reducing yields but increasing the quality of the grapes.

The large temperature differences between day and night promote aroma development and ensure a good balance between fruit, acidity and structure. These factors contribute to Spanish wines' freshness and ageing potential.

Sustainable viticulture and organic production

Sustainable and organic viticulture is becoming increasingly important in Spain. Many bodegas are committed to environmentally friendly methods, avoiding synthetic pesticides and promoting biodiversity in their vineyards. Reducing water consumption and preserving traditional grape varieties also play an important role.

In addition to classic organic cultivation, there are also wineries that work according to biodynamic principles or are committed to minimal intervention. These wines are often described as particularly authentic and natural.

Vinification – tradition and modernity in the cellar

Wine production in Spain combines traditional methods with modern cellar technology. Classic wooden barrels, especially made from American or French oak, are used alongside modern stainless steel tanks with precise temperature control. Many wineries combine traditional and modern techniques to achieve the best possible quality.

In many regions of Spain, especially in Rioja, ageing in barriques is a central element of winemaking. The use of oak gives the wines additional aroma, structure and ageing potential. At the same time, many wineries rely on modern techniques such as cold maceration or temperature-controlled fermentation to preserve the freshness and fruitiness of the wines.

Different fermentation and ageing methods

Different fermentation methods are used depending on the region and style of wine. In some cases, the grapes are fermented with their stems to increase tannin structure and complexity. Other winemakers rely on pure mash fermentation to produce particularly fruit-forward wines.

For white and rosé wines, fermentation at low temperatures is common to preserve the freshness and primary aromas of the grapes. In cava production, however, a second fermentation in the bottle, similar to champagne, is standard. This traditional method ensures the fine perlage and characteristic elegance of Spanish sparkling wines.

Wine and food – Spanish wines perfectly paired

A culture of enjoyment as part of Spanish identity

In Spain, the pairing of wine and food is an integral part of everyday life. Spanish cuisine, known for its aromatic and varied dishes, harmonises particularly well with the wines of the different regions. This results in combinations that offer both traditional and modern moments of enjoyment.

The diversity of Spain's grape varieties and wine styles opens up numerous possibilities for culinary experiences in which wine and food complement and enhance each other. Every wine lover can find something to suit their taste here.

Red wines and meat – a classic combination in Spain

Spanish red wines made from Tempranillo, Garnacha or Cariñena are perfect accompaniments to meat dishes. A full-bodied, well-structured red wine goes well with lamb chops with rosemary or grilled beef. These wines will impress any meat lover. They also harmonise particularly well with stews such as Spanish beef stew with peppers and tomatoes.

Mature red wines with fine tannins are the ideal accompaniment to game dishes such as partridge or venison with a dark sauce. The hearty spice and aromatic diversity of the wines balance the intensity of the food and ensure a well-rounded taste experience.

White wines and fish – freshness meets the aromas of the sea

Spanish white wines, especially those made from Albariño, Verdejo or Viura, are characterised by their freshness, lively acidity and fruity aromas. The alcohol content of these wines contributes to their freshness and balance. These characteristics make them ideal partners for fish dishes and seafood.

An Albariño from Rías Baixas goes wonderfully with grilled octopus, mussels in white wine sauce or prawns with garlic and olive oil. A Verdejo from Rueda is the perfect accompaniment to ceviche or salads with citrus dressing, while a Viura from Rioja also works very well with fried fish and Mediterranean vegetables.

Rosé wines as versatile accompaniments

Spanish rosé wines, often made from Garnacha or Tempranillo, impress with their freshness, fruitiness and lightness. The range of Spanish rosé wines offers something for every taste. They are particularly well suited as accompaniments to light dishes, salads, tapas or summer barbecues.

A rosé goes well with fried chicken skewers, couscous salad or cold starters such as Serrano ham and melon. Rosés are also an excellent accompaniment to pasta dishes with tomato sauce or Mediterranean-spiced vegetable stir-fries.

Cava – sparkling wine for many occasions

Cava, the classic Spanish sparkling wine, offers much more than just an aperitif. Thanks to its fine bubbles and fresh, slightly creamy structure, cava is a versatile partner in the kitchen.

It complements oysters, sushi or tapas with fish and seafood with its lively freshness. Cava also contrasts nicely with the crispy texture of fried foods such as calamari or croquettes, and cuts through the fattiness of the dishes.

Dessert wines and sweet combinations

Spain also offers a range of sweet wines, such as Muscat or Pedro Ximénez. These are excellent accompaniments to desserts or cheese platters. A Pedro Ximénez, with its aromas of dates, raisins and chocolate, goes perfectly with dark chocolate mousse or crêpes with caramel sauce.

Sweet wines from Spain also offer an exciting combination with strong blue cheeses such as Cabrales, highlighting the piquant aromas of the cheese.

Regional cuisine and wine – harmony from tradition

It is often the regional combinations of food and wine that offer the greatest enjoyment. In Castile, a mature Tempranillo is a classic accompaniment to suckling pig or lamb cooked in a wood-fired oven. In Galicia, fresh Albariño is served with seafood, while in Catalonia, a Garnacha rosé is served with paella or escalivada, a grilled vegetable dish.

These regional combinations are the result of centuries of experience and demonstrate how closely wine and cuisine are linked in Spain.

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The future of winegrowing in Spain

Wine growing in Spain has a promising future. By combining traditional methods and modern techniques, Spanish winemakers are able to produce high-quality wines that are appreciated worldwide. The growing demand for Spanish wines, especially red wines such as Tempranillo and Garnacha, is driving the development of wine growing in Spain. In addition, many Spanish winemakers are committed to sustainable and organic viticulture practices to protect the environment and improve the quality of their wines. With constant innovation and an unwavering commitment to quality, Spanish viticulture will continue to play an important role in the global wine world in the future.

The importance of viticulture for the Spanish economy

Wine production is an important economic factor in Spain. The wine industry contributes significantly to the Spanish economy by creating jobs, generating exports and promoting rural development. Many regions in Spain, such as Castile-La Mancha, Rioja and Catalonia, are heavily dependent on the wine industry. Wine production also supports the preservation of traditional landscapes and the promotion of cultural heritage. The production and sale of wines enable many small and medium-sized businesses in rural areas to survive and grow. In addition, tourism attracted by the wine regions also contributes to the local economy. Overall, viticulture plays a central role in the Spanish economy and contributes to the country's diversity and prosperity.

FAQs about buying wines from Spain

Which Spanish wine regions are best known?

The most famous regions include Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Priorat, Rías Baixas and La Mancha. Each region has its own grape varieties and styles.

Which grape varieties are commonly grown in Spain?

Common varieties include Tempranillo, Garnacha, Albariño, Verdejo, Viura, Monastrell and international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

What do Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva mean in Spanish wines?

These terms describe the ageing period: Crianza stands for shorter ageing, Reserva for medium ageing and Gran Reserva for long ageing in barrels and bottles.

Are there any good white wines in Spain?

Yes, Albariño, Verdejo and Viura in particular produce fresh, aromatic white wines with lively acidity and minerality.

What goes well with Spanish red wines?

Spanish red wines go well with lamb, beef, game dishes, tapas and hearty stews. Mature cheeses are also a good choice.