Located in the north of Spain, La Rioja is a wine region that exudes history and tradition in every glass. Its vineyards, which stretch along the Ebro River, have been cultivated since Roman times. However, it was in the 19th century that the region took a qualitative leap, adopting Bordeaux winemaking techniques following the devastation caused by phylloxera in France. This Franco-Spanish symbiosis laid the foundations for the worldwide fame of La Rioja wines, known for their quality and longevity.
The climate of La Rioja combines Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, protected by the Cantabrian Mountains, the soils, which range from calcareous and clayey to alluvial and ferrous, add complexity to the wines, it is divided into three main subregions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Oriental (formerly Rioja Baja). Each contributes unique characteristics to the wines due to their microclimates and diverse soil types.
Rioja Alta, with its cool climate and calcareous clay soils, produces elegant and long-lived wines, with marked acidity and complex flavors.
Rioja Alavesa, north of the Ebro, has calcareous soils and fresh air from the Bay of Biscay, producing fine and structured wines, especially balanced and deep Tempranillos.
Eastern Rioja, with a warm climate and varied soils, produces robust and fruity wines, with Garnacha standing out with fruity and full-bodied profiles.
Although Rioja is synonymous with red wines, especially Tempranillo, the region also produces excellent whites, rosés and sparkling wines. Reds are classified according to their age:
Young: Fresh and fruity wines, generally without barrel aging.
Aging: They require at least one year in barrel and another in bottle, offering balanced flavors of fruit and wood.
Reserve: Aged for three years, with at least one in barrels, they are complex and elegant wines.
Gran Reserva: With five years of aging (two in barrels), these are exceptional wines, rich in nuances and with great aging potential.
In recent years, Rioja has seen a wave of innovation with modern wineries that are redefining the wine landscape. From sustainable winemaking techniques to the introduction of international varieties such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Among them we highlight Mazuela winery that stands out for its fresh and characterful wines. Rioja continues to evolve while honoring its roots.
La Rioja is not just a wine region; it is a sensory experience that combines history, landscape and passion in every bottle. At Vinnatura, we are proud to offer a selection of these exceptional wines, perfect for any occasion and palate. Cheers!
