Tempranillo

The grape varietal for which Spain is best known and key to its best-known appellations Rioja, Navarra, Ribera del Duero and Jumilla. Tempranillo red wine is deep ruby in color with fragrances of strawberry, tobacco and leather which give way to savory cherry flavors and nuances of spice, clove, liquorice, fig and dill. Traditionally, tempranillo red wine is not bottled on its own but rather will constitute the majority of a blend (up to 85%) it may share with the likes of grenache, carignan, graciano, mazuelo, merlot or cabernet sauvignon. However, this is changing as a new generation of more intrepid growers seeks to harness the grape's full potential and experiment with varietal (i.e. 100%) tempranillo wines outside of its more famous appellations. Tempranillo red wine is almost always oaked and is hugely versatile when pairing with food, showing a particular affinity to roast lamb, all grilled red meats, Mexican cuisine and all types of charcuteria.