Welcome to our new website! Discover what's new in our latest article.
rgba(0,0,26,1)
rgba(255,255,255,1)
Discover and bid on unique, highly limited and renowned wines in our online auctions each month.
Tempranillo
Tempranillo is a red wine grape variety that is widely grown in the Spanish wine regions of Rioja and Ribera del Duero. It is considered one of the most important wine grapes in Spain and is known for producing medium-bodied red wines with firm tannins and flavours of red fruit and spices.
Notable regions
Tempranillo is particularly notable for its cultivation in the Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions of Spain, where almost every red wine has the grape at its core. In the former it is the major component of the Rioja blend alongside Garnacha, Carignan and Graciano, whereas in Ribera del Duero it is known as Tinto Fino and is either made into varietal wines or blended with Cabernet Sauvignon.
The variety is also grown in several other countries, including Portugal, where it is known as Tinto Roriz and Aragonez, and in California, Australia and New Zealand.
Characteristics
Tempranillo is known for producing high-quality red wines with a distinctive character. The variety has a rich aroma profile, often showcasing fruit flavours such as red cherry, raspberry and plum, along with notes of spice and sometimes a touch of vanilla from oak aging. Tempranillo wines are typically medium to full-bodied with moderate tannins, which contribute to the wine's structure and longevity.
The flavours in Tempranillo wines can vary greatly depending on growing conditions and winemaking techniques, but they are generally known for their balance of fruit and spice. Tempranillo wines are often high in alcohol, with a deep colour and a smooth texture.