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Rioja: The Classic Wine of Spain
 Cultivated for centuries and praised for its vibrant, velvety flavor,
Rioja red is the classic wine of Spain. This smooth and
aromatically-complex wine is made predominantly from the Tempranillo
grape and takes its name from Rioja wine-growing region of Northern
Spain. Tucked away behind a mountain range and protected from harsh
weather, the warm yet temperate climate of this region allows grapes to
ripen slowly and develop concentrated flavor. Although best known for
reds, the Rioja region also produces fine rosé wines, as well as
pleasantly-floral, delicate white wines.
Types of Rioja Reds
Regulated by the Spanish government’s Denominación de Origen Calificada
Rioja (DOC), Rioja wines come in four categories based on aging minimums
and ranging from young wines that should be consumed right away to wines
that will improve for up to 20 years in the bottle.
Guarantee of Origin
Indicating a young wine, this Rioja has not undergone the "crianza"
process.
Crianza
This Rioja is aged for at least two years, with at least one year in an
oak cask.
Reserva
With at least three years aging, including one year in an oak cask, a
good Reserva Rioja is especially smooth.
Gran Reserva
Made only in exceptional grape-growing years, a Gran Reserva is aged at
least five years, with two years in an oak cask and three years in a
bottle.
The Perfect Match
Delicious when paired with traditional Spanish cuisine like paella and
chorizo, Rioja is also wonderful with many American beef dishes. That’s
why Mary Sue and Susan’s simple, yet immensely flavorful Marinated Skirt
Steak accompanied by Spanish Rice Pilaf with Chick Peas is a perfect
match for a nice bottle of Rioja.
Marinated Skirt Steak
Spanish Rice Pilaf with Chick Peas
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