Rioja Wines
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Rioja DOCa, located in northern Spain along the Ebro River, is the country's most celebrated red wine region, built primarily on Tempranillo blended with Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano. Three sub-zones - Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental - each contribute distinct soil profiles, from the clay-limestone soils of the Alta to the iron-rich terrain further east, with Atlantic and Mediterranean climates converging to shape the vintage. Extended oak aging requirements distinguish Reserva and Gran Reserva classifications, producing wines with notable structure and longevity. Marques de Murrieta's Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial, sourced from a single estate, and La Rioja Alta's Viña Ardanza represent the age-worthy end of the spectrum, while CVNE's Imperial Reserva and Muga's range from Reserva through Torre Muga illustrate the breadth of traditional and modern winemaking styles the region sustains.
Description
Rioja DOCa, located in northern Spain along the Ebro River, is the country's most celebrated red wine region, built primarily on Tempranillo blended with Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano. Three sub-zones - Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental - each contribute distinct soil profiles, from the clay-limestone soils of the Alta to the iron-rich terrain further east, with Atlantic and Mediterranean climates converging to shape the vintage. Extended oak aging requirements distinguish Reserva and Gran Reserva classifications, producing wines with notable structure and longevity. Marques de Murrieta's Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial, sourced from a single estate, and La Rioja Alta's Viña Ardanza represent the age-worthy end of the spectrum, while CVNE's Imperial Reserva and Muga's range from Reserva through Torre Muga illustrate the breadth of traditional and modern winemaking styles the region sustains.
