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Rioja

Region

Red (can be white of rosé): Spain: Is a famous wine from the North of Spain. It is situated on a tributary of the river Ebro and has a continental climate. Its wines are normally a blend across three main regions listed below. It was given a DO in 1970 and was the first wine in Spain to receive the DOCa status in 1991. Most wines are labeled according to how they have been aged. (Tinto, Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva)
Rioja Regions:
Rioja Alta
West of the region and higher up. It contains many of the regions old vines and make some of the best wines. Although generally lighter on the palate.
Rioja Alavesa
Fuller in body due to a longer growing season, and again planted with old vines. Soils here and in worst condition than the Alta.
Rioja Baja
Warmest and driest area. It gives higher bodied wines with more alcohol and a deep colour. This usually contributes to a blend in most Riojas.
Grapes Used: Red: Tempranillo mainly but also Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo. White: Viura with Malvasía and Garnacha Blanca Rose: Tempranillo.

Classic Houses: Marques de Riscal, CVNE, Marqués de Murrieta, Ygay