Introduction
Spain is known around the world for its rich culture and delicious cuisine, but one thing many people don’t know is that Spain is also home to an amazing variety of wines. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply looking to find the perfect bottle to pair with your next meal, this article will help you discover the best wines of Spain. We’ll take a look at the different types of wines produced in the country, from Rioja and Priorat to Valdeorras and Jerez. Let’s get to it!
The Different Types of Wine Produced in Spain
Spain is home to some of the best wines in the world, with a variety of styles and production techniques. Common wine varieties produced in Spain include Rioja, Priorat, Monastrell, and Garnacha. Rioja is a dry red wine made with Tempranillo grapes, aged in a blend of American and French oak. Priorat is an intensely flavored red wine, made from indigenous grapes, grown in the steep and rocky soils of the Priorat region. Monastrell, or Mourvèdre, is a medium-bodied red wine that has a deep, dark color and notes of plums, blackberries, and spice. Lastly, Garnacha is a full-bodied red or, occasionally, a rosé wine, with aromas of ripe red fruit.
Rioja
Rioja is a Spanish wine region and a Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) in the autonomous community of La Rioja. Known for its world-class wines, the region is one of the oldest in Spain and has a long history of producing wines. Its most well-known varietals include Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Graciano. Rioja wines are typically fruity and full-bodied, with notes of dark berry, leather, and spices. Most Rioja wines are aged in American and French oak for a period before release, and many bottles include the year of the vintage in the label. Wine lovers looking for a classic Spanish wine should definitely include Rioja in their collection.
Priorat
is a small appellation in Catalonia, located South of Barcelona. It is known for its powerful, full-bodied red wines, largely made from the Garnacha and Cariñena grape varieties. The wines are distinctive for their deep black cherry and smoky mineral flavors, and for their structure, complexity and great aging potential. Priorat wines are usually high in alcohol and tannin, giving them a bold and powerful character. The best wines from Priorat include Clos Mogador, Mas Alta and Scala Dei.
Valdeorras
is a wine region located in the eastern part of the Galicia province in Spain. It is known for producing high quality white and red wines made from the local varieties such as White Godello, Alvarelhão, Mencia and Garnacha Tintorera. These wines have a unique character due to the effects of the climatic conditions in the region, which provide cool temperatures with mild days and nights. The wines produced in Valdeorras tend to be soft and aromatic with low tannins and a great acidity. The most famous wine of Valdeorras is the Godello, a white wine made from the local grape variety with a fresh and intense nose of fruits and flowers, a mineral palate and a long finish.
Jerez and Manzanilla
are two types of wine from the Spanish region of Andalusia. The region is home to some of the best wines in Spain, and these two varieties are no exception. Jerez, or Sherry, is an amber-hued fortified wine, made from Palomino grapes, that is aged in barrels for a minimum of three years. Manzanilla is a dry, straw colored wine also made from Palomino grapes. It is generally aged in barrels for at least two years and is slightly lighter in color and flavor than Jerez. Both wines are popular in Spain and the rest of the world and can be enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with tapas.
Conclusion
Spain has a rich wine culture that is enjoyed around the world. From Rioja and Priorat to the many other varieties, Spain has a wealth of wines for everyone to enjoy. While it is impossible to try all of Spain’s wines, the wines included in this article are a great starting point for discovering the country’s delicious offerings. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wines, the best wines of Spain are sure to leave a lasting impression.
