Famous wines from Spain
While in France and Italy the protected designations of origin are also synonyms for well-known types of wine, this only applies to a limited extent to Spanish wines. Here it is more the grape varieties such as Tempranillo, Garnacha or Verdejo that are causing a sensation in various growing regions and have established the reputation of Spanish wines beyond the country's borders. In addition, the bodegas, i.e. the wineries, are more in the foreground. But of course there are also numerous exceptions that confirm the rule. Some growing regions are very well known for a certain grape variety or a certain style of wine. And we will now take a look at those.
Spanish red wines
- Rioja: Spain's Tempranillo epicenter. The red grape variety characterizes almost all red wines here. Then there are the different ripeness levels of the wines, which are popular all over the world. However, there is no such thing as a typical Rioja wine, as everything from fruity and playful to deep and complex is available. But that is exactly what makes the wines so charming.
- Priorat: The Priorat is the oldest wine-growing region in Catalonia. The region is known for its licorella slate soils - and for its ancient Garanacha vines. Accordingly, red wine is very important here. The wines are usually very dark, concentrated and very high in alcohol. They ripen wonderfully, but are also enjoyable when young.
- Bierzo: For a long time, it was said that the red Mencía grape could not produce decent quality wines. However, the winemakers from Bierzo have been showing for a few decades that very good quality wines are possible if the grapes are properly cared for in the vineyard and not pumped up unnecessarily during vinification. This results in wines that are as juicy as they are fine and can be extremely elegant.
- Ribera del Duero: In the region of Castile-León, the Ribera del Duero is another Tempranillo stronghold - flanked by Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Merlot. The wines are stylistically a little more international and spicier.
- Ribeira Sacra: This Galician gem is known for white wines made from the Godello grape variety. But in reality, they make up less than 5% of the total production. The real star is the red Mencía grape, which shows how charming and yet subtle it can be, especially in the higher elevations.
- Navarra: Rosé wines used to be the big hit here, but then they switched to modern red wines made from the Garnacha grape. A very good decision, because the wines shine with lots of fruit, depth and elegance.
Spanish white wines
- Rías Baixas: Here, on the west coast of Galicia, Albariño is the star grape variety. The white grape produces crisp, fresh white wines with lively acidity. Ideal summer wines.
- Rueda: Verdejo, Viura, Sauvignon Blanc and Palomino are the main grape varieties in Rueda, which is firmly in the hands of white wine. There is no uniform style, but the wines usually combine freshness and strength. A beautiful contrast that is very well received by many consumers.
- Ribeiro: Classic white wine region in Galicia. The most important grape variety is Treixadura (also known as Trajadura) - flanked by Albariño, Albilla, Godello, Loureira, Macabeo and Palomino. The wines are fresh and fruity, with an often quite floral scent.
Spanish rosé wines
Navarra was once considered Spain's rosé stronghold, but now it has also dedicated itself to red wine. Rosados, as rosé wines are called in Spain, are produced in almost every growing region. Individual producers have earned a very good reputation in this category. Nevertheless, the reputation of rosados cannot be compared to that of red or white wines.
Spanish sparkling wines
Cava: 96% of Cava production takes place in the Penedès wine-growing region west of Barcelona. The D.O. also extends to areas of Navarra, Rioja and Valencia, among others. Cava is the Spanish sparkling wine par excellence, produced using traditional bottle fermentation. Standard grapes are Parellada, Xarel·lo and Macabeo. But there are also producers who use grape varieties such as Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for a more international sparkling wine style. Garnacha, Monastrell and Trepat are also used. Accordingly, one cannot speak of a uniform Cava style.