Crazy about Rioja
Posted by Ilona Roberts on
RIOJA
Spain's flagship red wine
The Rioja region covers 3 areas in the north of Spain - Alta, Alavesa and Oriental. Made mainly from Tempranillo grapes, usually blended with Garnacha, it's distinctive flavour comes from oak ageing (a trick learnt from Bordeaux).
How much oak do you like?
Rioja Crianza, aged for a minimum of 1 year in oak barrels and 1 year in the bottle, has lighter oak notes. Whereas, Rioja Reserva is aged for 1 year in oak barrels and 2 years in the bottle for a more distinct flavour.
If you really love oak notes...
Try Rioja Gran Reserva. Made from the best vintages where fruit quality is rich enough to support 2 years of oak ageing in barrels and 3 years in the bottle!
Not a fan of oak?
Look out for Rioja Joven which has no oak ageing at all.
Rioja, Bodegas Navajas £8.89
Rioja Crianza, Manoso £9.99
Rioja Crianza, Cosme Palacio 2017 £18.49
Available in store only
Rioja Crianza, Cune
MAGNUM
£25.00
NEXT WINE TASTING
20, 21, 22 March
at our South Molton shop