You likely won’t find Graciano wine listed on any “most popular wine” list. At least, not yet, but that notion is slowly changing. Not only is Graciano wine being seen in more wine blends (not just Tempranillo) but it’s also earning respect as a solo wine by wine experts and drinkers alike. Let’s take a closer look at this richly colored and aromatic red wine variety.
History of Graciano wine
Graciano is a red wine grape that is native to the Basque Country in Spain. The Graciano vine was brought to Rioja in the 19th century and it is now one of the most important grapes in the region. Some of the best Graciano wines come from Rioja, where the climate is perfect for this grape. Graciano produces wines with high acidity and strong tannins. Graciano wine is known for its deep color, high tannins, and spicy flavor profile. The flavors of Graciano wines are typically red fruits, with notes of black pepper and herbs.
Depending on where you are in the world, you may find Graciano wine by another name. For example, if you live in California, you may hear it called Xeres and if you’re in Portugal it may go by a different name like Tinta Miuda. No matter what name it has in your region, the concept is the same.
How Graciano Made
Graciano wines are grown in a few regions around the world, including Spain and Argentina. In Spain, they are grown in the Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions. In Argentina, they are grown in the province of Mendoza. Graciano wines from Spain tend to be a little fruitier and more acidic than those from Argentina.
The grapes are harvested and then crushed to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented with yeast to produce alcohol. The wine is then aged in oak barrels for 12 to 18 months to allow the flavors to mellow and marry. After the wine is aged, it goes through a clarification process to make sure only the best wine is available.
How to Pair With Food
Graciano wines are perfect for wintertime meals when you want something a little bit more robust and flavorful than your average red wine. They have a deep, dark color and flavors of blackberry, plum, and violet. They are medium-bodied with moderate tannins and acidity, making them a great choice for food pairing. Graciano is often paired with rich, hearty dishes such as beef or lamb stew, Moroccan tagine, or pork Osso Bucco. It is also a great match for strong cheeses such as blue cheese or gorgonzola.
Whether you’re serving roast beef, grilled chicken, or a vegetarian dish, Graciano is a wine that will complement it nicely. So, next time you’re at the wine store, pick up a bottle of this rich wine and enjoy! Cheers!
