Have you ever come across a wine called Tempranillo? If you haven’t yet don’t sleep on this one! Tempranillo is a highly-respected wine that can be used on its own or with other blends. We are going to discuss everything that you need to know about Tempranillo wine, also known as Cencibel, Tinto Fino, Aragonéz, and Tinta del Pais. This Spanish red wine is made from deep red grapes that are commonly known to make a variety of red wine blends.
Tempranillo Grapes
Tempranillo has the taste of Sauvignon grapes that usually changes as the wine ages. A young tempranillo grape produces a fresh fruity flavor, however, it gives you a flavor of dust and tobacco and leather as it ages. Tempranillo makes the best blends and so far makes the best blend in Portugal. Tempranillo is usually found in Spain, Portugal, Australia, and the US among other regions. In each region, it bears a different name from the others.
History of Tempranillo
Tempranillo was first introduced in Spain and Portugal around 3,000 years ago by the Phoenicians and later spread to other regions gradually. Today, tempranillo is one of the most planted grapes in the world being recognized as one of the nine top-quality red wines. There are 18 top-quality wines in total which comprise of 9 red and 9 white wines around the world. Tempranillo is the main grape that makes Rioja wines, a region in Spain that made the grape famous.
Styles of Rioja Wine
Rioja wines are made up of four styles using Tempranillo, which are based on the aging process and prices. The four styles are as follows:
- Gran Reserva is the most expensive wine and stays 2 years in oak and 3 years in bottle.
- Reserva is the second most expensive and spends 1 year in oak and 2 years in bottle.
- Crianza is the second least expensive and usually spends 1 year in oak and 1 year in bottle.
- Generic does not require aging in oak and stays in bottle for 1 year. It is the least expensive.
Flavors of Tempranillo
Tempranillo wines usually have the flavors of cherry, tobacco, and dried fruits. The older tempranillo wines get, they change in flavor from fruity to more robust, layered flavors. Depending on the region that tempranillo grapes come from, the wines can taste quite different. The tannins, however, will consistently be high with notable acidity.
Food Pairings
Tempranillo goes well with a variety of food pairings and it also tastes rich on its own. Spanish dishes and spicy foods pair especially well. Many people sip tempranillo with a variety of other foods such as pizza, pasta, and meats and it tastes perfect.
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