9 Superb Tempranillos From the Spanish Region Where They Make It Best
Spain’s flagship red grape is Tempranillo, and for some of the best versions wine lovers in the know turn to Ribera del Duero. The grape often goes undercover in this region north of Madrid; locals (and some labels) refer to it as Tinto Fino and Tinta del Pais, stating that due to the altitude, climate, and soil types, it has evolved to create a wholly different style of wine than Tempranillo cultivated in other Spanish regions.
Winemaking here dates to the Roman era, and Benedictine monks from France were involved in growing grapes and making wine in the area in the 12th century. Despite its long history, when Ribera del Duero received denominacion de origin status in 1982, there were just nine wineries here. In contrast, today there are 270 wineries cultivating 55,000 acres of vines that sit at altitudes ranging from 2,500 to 2,800 feet above sea level. Hot summer days with cooling winds and chilly nights maintain the grapes’ acidity, which adds to the wine’s freshness and ability to age.
Most wines from the region are 100 percent Tempranillo, but DO regulations stipulate that a minimum of 75 percent of Tempranillo can be blended with up to 25 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or Merlot. Up to five percent of Garnacha Tinta or Albillo Mayor can also be blended in. The first four grapes, all red, add tannins, fruit flavors, and acidity to the final blend, while Albillo Mayor, a white grape that can also be bottled on its own, brings floral notes to the bouquet. Barrel aging brings spice, vanilla, and chocolate notes to the mix.
Expect bold but polished tannins, smoothness and elegance on the palate, and flavors of ripe red fruits, cassis, black raspberry, cranberry, saddle leather, cigar box, and pomegranate. While Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero is a natural alongside almost any well-marbled, flame-kissed cut of beef, try pairing a bottle with lamb chops, duck breast, charcuterie, eggplant parmigiana, or pasta with shaved truffles. Here are nine to look for now.
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