Rioja Wines | Wines from Rioja

Discovering Rioja: Spain’s Premier Red Wine Region

Welcome to Rioja, one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world and the beating heart of Spanish viticulture. Known for its exceptional quality and rich history, wines from Rioja have captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

A Historical Journey Through Rioja

The history of winemaking in La Rioja dates back to the Ancient Romans, who recognised the region's potential for producing exquisite wines. However, it was the mid-19th century that marked a pivotal moment for Rioja. Influenced by the techniques and innovations of Bordeaux, local winemakers began embracing high-quality oak barrels, transforming what was once straightforward, fruity reds into complex and sophisticated wines.

Rioja is Spain’s largest red wine-producing region today, boasting over 600 wineries and an impressive annual production of more than 400 million bottles. The designation of DOCa (Denominación de Origen Calificada) is a testament to the region’s commitment to quality, with strict regulations governing grape varieties and ageing processes.

The Grapes of Rioja: Tempranillo and Graciano

Tempranillo, the region's most widely planted grape, is at the heart of Rioja's red wines. Known for its ripe red fruit flavours and smooth tannins, Tempranillo is often complemented by other varieties like Graciano, which adds depth and aroma. Together, these grapes create a deliciously balanced wine that showcases the region's terroir.

But it’s not just reds making waves—Rioja's white and rosé wines are gaining popularity as winemakers explore new trends and styles. With Garnacha Blanco and Macabeo taking centre stage, there's something for every palate in this diverse region.

The Climate and Geography of Rioja

The climate in Rioja is remarkably favourable compared to other parts of Spain. Nestled between the Sierra de Cantabria mountains to the north and west, the region benefits from shelter against cold Atlantic winds, allowing for long stretches of warm sunlight, especially during summer. This ideal climate helps grapes ripen perfectly, ensuring a rich, full-bodied flavour profile.

With its hilly landscape and picturesque riverbank locations, Rioja offers stunning views and varied microclimates that contribute to the character of its wines. The region’s soils, a mix of iron, clay, and chalk, provide the perfect foundation for nurturing high-quality grapes.

A Visit to Rioja Wineries

For wine lovers, exploring the Rioja wineries is an unforgettable experience. Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings, allowing you to delve into the winemaking process and learn about the traditions that have shaped this renowned region. Engage with passionate winemakers eager to share their knowledge and love for their craft.

Conclusion: Raise a Glass to Rioja

Whether indulging in a glass of rich Tempranillo or discovering the refreshing notes of a Rioja white, the wines from this remarkable region promise to delight your senses. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and dedication to quality, Rioja is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about Spanish wine. So, raise your glass and toast to this extraordinary wine region's vibrant flavours and timeless traditions!

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Red 15

Bodegas Bhilar, Rioja Alavesa, Phinca La Revilla Tinto 2015 75cl £87.94

Intriguing and aromatic notes of balsamic, wild herbs and floral blossom combine with nutty complexity The palate reveals fine polished tannins and a fresh cool-climate twist

Red 14.5

Bodegas Bhilar, Rioja Alavesa, Phinca El Vedao, Rioja 2019 75cl £32.20

An expressive Garnacha with inviting aromas of berried fruit complemented by a floral touch Fresh with balanced acidity, fine tannins and a chalky texture

White 12.5

Bodegas Bhilar, Rioja Alavesa, Phincas Thousand Mils Blanco 2020 75cl £36.14

Deliciously complex, with aromas of baked apple and chamomile with a delicate earthy touch Fresh and saline with leesy richness, flavours of orange marmalade and lovely grip

Red 14.5

Torre de Ona, Finca Martelo, Rioja Reserva 2016 150cl £85.16

Polished, elegant and refined, with rich flavours of ripe berried fruit complemented by sweet spice, liquorice and clove through to a long, sleek finish

Red 14.5

Cuentavinas Rioja Single Vineyard Alomado 2021 75cl £54.26

This single-vineyard field blend is a contemporary take on a traditional style, and incorporates around 20% of co-fermented white varieties It has pinpoint precision and bright vivacity, with crisp, juicy cherry fruit and attractively herbal leafiness At the intersection of freshness and ripeness, it shows extraordinary integration of all its components and is so elegant as to be almost delicate Its depth becomes evident on the palate, with black cherry, dark chocolate, almond and liquorice, which sustain on the long finish An astonishingly brilliant wine—amazing!

Red 14.5

Cuentavinas Rioja Garnacha 2021 75cl £54.26

From vines aged more than 100 years, situated in a vineyard on the Ebro's right bank, this has a vibrant raspberry juice colour and irresistibly juicy Garnacha aroma of strawberry cordial and hints of morello cherry and orange zest It's a pleasure just to inhale it for a few minutes Upon taking a sip, one is confronted by glorious freshness and purity, seamlessly supple texture, exceptional balance and elegance Raspberries, liquorice and pink peppercorns An utterly lovely wine

Red 14.5

Torre de Ona, Finca Martelo, Rioja Reserva 2016 75cl £43.40

Polished, elegant and refined, with rich flavours of ripe berried fruit complemented by sweet spice, liquorice and clove through to a long, sleek finish

Red 14

Bodega Bideona Vino de Pueblo, Laguardia L4GD4, Rioja Alavesa 2020 75cl £37.22

A light and perfumed wine with delicate, floral aromas of wild strawberries and violets complemented by a long, mineral core

Red 14.5

Vinedos Sierra Cantabria Rioja Finca El Bosque 2021 75cl £71.96

An incredibly distinguished wine from the tiny, 14 hectare, El Bosque vineyard, planted on a deep gravel terrace overlooking the Ebro River The Egurens recognised the similarity of this well-drained site to the great growths of Bordeaux, and the concentration and complexity of its miniscule annual yield are truly awesome One to cellar for an extremely special occasion The exceptional quality of the vineyard is reflected in the intensity of aromas and flavours, exquisite finesse and extraordinary length, and the ability to mature for many years

Red 14.5

Vinedos Sierra Cantabria Rioja Amancio 2020 75cl £74.51

The Eguren s most cherished Rioja vineyard is called La Veguilla, planted 1975 at San Vicente de la Sonsierra The vines here produce just two or three bunches of grapes each year, and the fruit quality is already outstanding However, to make Amancio, La Veguilla's most exquisite individual grapes are selected and de-stemmed by hand The wine therefore requires longer ageing in top-quality, new French oak Bordeaux barrels, which is why it is released the latest It also demands further ageing in the bottle to truly show its extraordinary nature, so be prepared to hold on to it for a few years With maturity, you can expect an impressive explosion of flavour complexity: black cherries, dark chocolate, figs, aniseed, dried herbs, woodsmoke, soy sauce, spices and beef stock Patience required, but absolutely worth the wait!