Rioja Alta

Rioja Alta is a sub-region of Rioja, Spain.

The signature grape is Tempranillo, backed by Garnacha and Graciano.

Vines root into alluvial, clay and iron-rich.

The climate is continental.

The vineyards themselves read as elevated and riverside.

Red wine, white wine and rosé wine is what the region is known for, and in the glass it shows spice, oak, fresh and aromatic and showcasing bright acidity, plus two more.

Producers worth knowing include Bodegas Marqués de Cáceres, Bodegas Muga, La Rioja Alta and Marqués de Murrieta.

Pour them alongside grilled lamb, paella, roasted vegetables and rich stews.

Serve at 15 to 18°C.

Keeps for 5 to 10 years.

In the glass.

Red: Spice, Oak.

White: Fresh and aromatic, Showcasing bright acidity.

Rosé: Crisp with fruity flavors, Delightful balance.

Grapes planted here.

Producers worth knowing.

Bottles to look for.

• Bodegas Contador - Benjamin Romeo 'Contador', Rioja DOCa, Spain
• Bodegas Muga 'Prado Enea' Gran Reserva, Rioja DOCa, Spain
• Bodegas Muga Reserva - Crianza, Rioja DOCa, Spain
• Bodegas Muga Seleccion Especial Reserva, Rioja DOCa, Spain
• Bodegas Muga Torre Muga, Rioja DOCa, Spain
• Bodegas Roda 'Roda I' Reserva, Rioja DOCa, Spain
• Bodegas Roda Reserva, Rioja DOCa, Spain
• CVNE 'Cune' Gran Reserva, Rioja DOCa, Spain

At the table.

• Grilled lamb
• Paella
• Roasted vegetables
• Rich stews

Serving and cellaring.

• Serve at 15 to 18°C.
• Keeps for 5 to 10 years.

Nearby regions.

Rioja Alta: common questions

More from here: every wine region in Spain, or the wider Rioja guide.