The cellar index

WineCollection 32

Tempranillo

Red and dark fruit shaped by Iberian vineyards and a broad range of oak traditions.

Origin & traditionSpain, Portugal & beyond

Character & context

Understanding Tempranillo

Tempranillo is central to Rioja and Ribera del Duero and is known as Tinta Roriz or Aragonez in Portugal. Youthful versions can be fruit-led; longer maturation can add leather, tobacco and spice. Ageing terms belong to their local context and do not make every wine taste alike. The Rioja guide remains the regional companion.

Further reading: Wine Folly — Tempranillo

Read related observations