Tempranillo

Tempranillo wine – Spain's number one red wine

Tempranillo wine: the soul of Spanish viticulture

In hardly any other wine region in Europe is a single grape variety so closely associated with the identity of a country as Tempranillo is with Spain. Tempranillo wine, known for its depth, structure and versatility, is the number one Spanish red wine. From classic examples from La Rioja to powerful variants from Ribera del Duero, Tempranillo embodies the winegrowing diversity of the Iberian Peninsula.

The origin: a traditional grape variety with a melodious name

The name Tempranillo is derived from the Spanish word ‘temprano’, which means ‘early’ – a reference to the early ripening of the grapes. The vine is one of the oldest in the Spanish wine regions and is known by various synonyms, including Tinta Roriz in Portugal, Tinto Fino, Tinto del País and Aragonez. Its history goes back several centuries, and its distribution has long since taken on international dimensions.

La Rioja – The centre of Tempranillo viticulture

The most famous wine region for Tempranillo is La Rioja. This region is divided into three areas: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Baja. Rioja Alta in particular produces elegant Tempranillo wines with fine acidity, soft tannins and an aromatic depth that is appreciated by connoisseurs worldwide.

Ribera del Duero – Powerful Tempranillos from the highlands

A little further west lies Ribera del Duero, a wine region with great appeal. The continental climate here, with hot days and cool nights, allows the Tempranillo grapes to ripen slowly. The grape variety known locally as Tinto Fino produces concentrated wines with a dense texture, powerful tannins and great ageing potential.

Tempranillo wine worldwide – from Portugal to the USA

Tempranillo has also long been established outside Spain. In Portugal, it is known as Tinta Roriz and is a component of many fine cuvées, especially in the Douro Valley. In the USA, Tempranillo is now increasingly found in California, Oregon and Texas. The diversity of the wine regions is also reflected in the styles, which range from fruity and fresh to woody and complex.

Character and taste of the wine

The taste of Tempranillo wine depends heavily on the growing region and how it is made. Typical aromas range from red berries, strawberries and cherries to dark fruits such as plums. Aging in wooden barrels develops additional notes of vanilla, tobacco, leather and sweet spices. The structure is usually well-balanced, with medium to strong tannins and moderate acidity.

Ageing and storage

Many Tempranillo wines benefit from ageing in oak barrels, which rounds out the aromas and improves their ageing potential. In La Rioja, wines are often classified according to their degree of maturity: Joven (young), Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva. With increasing ageing, secondary and tertiary aromas develop, giving the wine additional complexity – an essential aspect in assessing its quality.

The Tempranillo grape variety in comparison

Although Tempranillo is number one in Spain, it is worth comparing it with other important grape varieties. Unlike the aromatically explosive Syrah or the tannin-rich Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo has a softer, more accessible texture. In contrast to Pinot Noir, which often appears more delicate, Tempranillo shows more depth and structure. Nebbiolo, on the other hand, known from Piedmont, has more acidity but similar ageing potential.

Typical aromas of Tempranillo wine

The diversity of aromas is one of Tempranillo's strengths. In cool regions, fresh berries, sour cherries and floral notes dominate. In warmer areas such as La Mancha or Ribera del Duero, darker fruits, spices and often a hint of chocolate come to the fore. Mature wines also reveal hints of leather, tobacco and earthy components.

Tempranillo cuvées: exciting combinations

Tempranillo wine is not only produced as a single variety. The grape variety is often blended with Garnacha, Cariñena or international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon. Such cuvées open up new aromatic horizons: Garnacha brings fruit and warmth, Cabernet structure and depth, while Cariñena provides freshness and spice.

Tempranillo cultivation and its challenges

Tempranillo cultivation places high demands on the soil and climate. The grapes prefer calcareous, well-drained soils and are sensitive to excessive moisture. Early ripening makes them susceptible to heat waves, which is why higher altitudes such as Rioja Alta or Ribera del Duero are preferred. Viticulture here requires a careful balance between yield and quality.

Wine and food – culinary recommendations with Tempranillo

One of the highlights of Tempranillo wine is its versatility with food. Thanks to its structure, fruity aromas and balanced acidity, it goes well with a wide range of dishes:

With meat dishes:

• Braised lamb with rosemary
• Beef fillet with pepper sauce
• Spanish rabbit stew

With Mediterranean cuisine:

• Paella with chicken or rabbit
• Fried aubergines with tomatoes and Manchego cheese
• Tapas with chorizo, olives and Serrano ham

With vegetarian dishes:

• Lentils with peppers and smoked tofu
• Ratatouille with fresh herbs
• Grilled polenta with mushroom ragout

With cheese:

• Mature Manchego
• Pecorino
• Blue cheese with fig compote

This culinary versatility makes Tempranillo wine a faithful companion from aperitif to main course and also as a digestif with a cheese platter.

Tempranillo and international recognition

International wine ratings regularly confirm the high quality of Spanish Tempranillos. Tasters such as James Suckling and Robert Parker particularly praise the balance of fruit, acidity and structure. Top ratings are not only given to Gran Reservas, but also to accessible wines that offer good value for money.

Product diversity: Tempranillo in all price ranges

From young everyday wines to mature premium reds, Tempranillo is available in almost all price segments. This diversity makes it interesting for beginners and experienced connoisseurs alike. Depending on the vintage, region and ageing, a wide variety of styles and textures can be discovered – from fresh and fruity to elegant and mature.

The Tempranillo grape through the ages

Over the centuries, the Tempranillo grape has established itself as an integral part of Spanish viticulture. New cultivation methods, sustainable viticulture and modern cellar technology now influence the style of many wines and ensure a contemporary interpretation of this traditional red wine variety.

Exciting alternatives – Pinot Noir, Syrah and Co.

Despite its popularity, it is worth taking a look at other varieties: Pinot Noir is often lighter and more acidic, ideal for cooler dishes. Syrah offers spicy aromas and depth. Nebbiolo fascinates with its complexity and ageing potential. Nevertheless, Tempranillo remains unique, especially in its combination of elegance, structure and drinkability.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Tempranillo wine

What kind of wine is Tempranillo?

Tempranillo is a red grape variety from Spain that produces full-bodied, fruity wines with balanced acidity and fine tannins. It is often aged in wooden barrels and is known for its good ageing potential.

What is the difference between Rioja and Tempranillo?

Tempranillo is the grape variety, Rioja is the wine region. In Rioja, wines are produced from Tempranillo (and often Garnacha). Not all Tempranillo comes from Rioja, but many of the best known do.

Is Tempranillo wine healthy?

When enjoyed in moderation, Tempranillo wines – like many red wines – can have positive effects. Polyphenols such as resveratrol have antioxidant properties. It is important to consume them in moderation.

Is Tempranillo Rosé dry or sweet?

Rosé wines made from Tempranillo come in both varieties. They are often dry, fruity and fresh. Some rosados also have a subtle residual sweetness, especially in younger vintages.

What is Spanish Tempranillo?

Spanish Tempranillo refers to wines produced in Spain from the Tempranillo grape. They usually come from regions such as La Rioja, Ribera del Duero or Navarra.

What does Spanish Tempranillo taste like?

Spanish Tempranillo has aromas of strawberries, plums, vanilla and leather. The wines are full-bodied, with fine tannins and pleasant acidity. Depending on the ageing process, they may also have notes of tobacco and spices.