Key Facts

Also Known As: Tinta de Toro, Tinta Roriz, Aragonez
Viticulture Attributes: Early budding, Early ripening, Thin to medium skin, Drought tolerant, Disease prone
Key Growing Regions: Spain, Portugal

WSET3 Palate Notes

Body - Medium to Full,
Acid - Medium,
Tannin - Medium to High,
Alcohol - Medium to High.
Tastes Like: Red fruit ( strawberry, cherry), Tobacco, Leather

Tempranillo stands as one of Spain’s most cherished red grape varieties, known for producing wines with depth, character, and an intriguing flavor profile that evolves beautifully with age.

What You Can Expect to Taste and Smell

Tempranillo wines typically exhibit aromas of red fruit, with notes of strawberry and cherry prominent. As they mature, additional layers of complexity emerge, revealing hints of tobacco and leather, contributing to their allure.

Comparison of Cool vs Warm Climates

Tempranillo thrives in both cool and warm climates, although it shows different characteristics depending on its environment. In cooler regions like Rioja Alta (Spain), the wines tend to be more elegant with bright acidity and refined tannins. In warmer areas such as Toro (Spain) or Alentejo (Portugal), the grapes ripen fully, resulting in richer, more robust wines.

Key Regions and Name Some Appellations or Producers of Note

Key Regions:

  • Spain: Tempranillo’s homeland, particularly celebrated in regions like Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Toro for producing some of the finest expressions.
  • Portugal: Known as Tinta Roriz or Aragonez, it contributes to the blends of Douro Valley ports and is increasingly being used for high-quality table wines in Alentejo.

Notable Producers:

  • Bodegas Muga (Rioja, Spain): Renowned for their traditional approach to Tempranillo, crafting wines that balance fruit intensity with elegance and structure.
  • Bodegas Vega Sicilia (Ribera del Duero, Spain): Produces iconic wines that showcase Tempranillo’s potential for aging and complexity, often blended with other grapes.

Age-worthiness

Tempranillo wines are known for their aging potential. While enjoyable in their youth for their vibrant fruit flavors, the best examples benefit from aging, developing tertiary aromas and flavors that add depth and sophistication.

First Published: Monday, Jun 10, 2024 Last updated: Jun 10, 2024

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Damien Saunders
WSET3 award - Has been on a journey to learn more about wine, viticulture since I started travelling. Every country has something to drink.
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