Tempranillo Wine Guide
Discover Tempranillo, Spain's noble red grape. Learn about its rich cherry flavors, oak-aged styles, and why Rioja wines are legendary.
Characteristics
- Medium to full-bodied with moderate tannins
- Flavors of cherry, plum, leather, and vanilla
- Excellent affinity for oak aging
- Ages gracefully for decades in top examples
Key Regions
Food Pairings
- Roasted lamb with rosemary
- Chorizo and cured meats
- Manchego cheese
- Grilled vegetables with olive oil
Serving Temperature
60-65°F (16-18°C)
Spain’s Noble Red Grape
Tempranillo is the backbone of Spanish winemaking, producing some of the world’s most distinctive and age-worthy red wines. Known locally as “the early one” (temprano means early in Spanish), this grape ripens quickly and adapts beautifully to the traditional oak aging that defines Rioja and Ribera del Duero.
Tasting Tempranillo
Classic Flavors
- Fruit: Cherry, plum, strawberry, dried fig
- Secondary: Leather, tobacco, vanilla, dill (from American oak)
- With age: Dried fruit, cedar, coffee, dried herbs
On the Palate
Medium to full-bodied with moderate tannins and acidity. Oak aging adds complexity and smoothness. Typically 12.5-14.5% alcohol.
World Regions
Rioja, Spain
The most famous home of Tempranillo. Traditional Rioja wines are aged extensively in oak barrels, creating the signature vanilla and leather notes. The classification system (Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva) indicates aging time.
Ribera del Duero, Spain
Higher altitude vineyards produce more powerful, concentrated expressions with darker fruit and firmer structure than Rioja.
Portugal
Known as Tinta Roriz or Aragonez, it’s a key component in Port wines and Douro Valley reds.
Food Pairings
Tempranillo’s moderate acidity and savory character make it ideal with:
- Roasted lamb with rosemary
- Chorizo and cured meats
- Manchego cheese
- Grilled vegetables with olive oil
Aging Classifications
Spanish Tempranillo follows strict aging requirements:
- Joven: Young, minimal oak aging
- Crianza: 2 years aging, 1 year in oak
- Reserva: 3 years aging, 1 year in oak
- Gran Reserva: 5 years aging, 2 years in oak
Learn More with Sommo
Use the Sommo app to explore Tempranillo wines from different regions, track your favorite producers, and discover the perfect bottle for your next Spanish-inspired meal.
