Rioja is the greatest wine producing region of Spain. It is the countries version of France’s Bordeaux’s and like Bordeaux is a blend of 3 or more grapes with Tempranillo being the main one, but these wines have the delicacy of a fine Burgundy. On the whole Rioja wine is aged longer before release than any other wine in the world. Ten years is not uncommon! It is the only wine in Spain to carry a DOC status. What this means is that it MUST meet the highest standards in it winemaking and viticultural practices. You will see a label on every bottle.
Below is a thumbnail sketch of the age classifications:
CRIANZA: This is the youngest wine, easy drinking with vibrant flavors, these wines are the bread and butter of every Bodega. These wines MUST be aged for at least 2 years, one of which must be in oak barrels
RESERVA: Made from superior grapes in prime growing areas, these wines are more lush and concentrated in their flavors. They are made only in EXCEPTIONAL years. These wines must be aged for at least 3 years one of which must be in oak barrels
GRAND RESERVA: These wines are extremely rare, come only from the best vineyards and represent just 10% of the wines produced. These are the most elegant, refined and silky of all the Rioja’s. These wines must be aged for at least 5 years two of which must be in oak*.
It is a real treat to have the opportunity to be drinking a Grand Reserva at any tasting.
*The oak is traditionally American but there has been some use of French in recent history.
- Alan
No comments:
Post a Comment