Rioja wine is part of the culture of our country. Over the years, La Rioja has become a region of Spain famous for its wines. For this reason, currently, Rioja wines are famous all over the world.
Rioja wines are produced in the appellation of origin that gives them their name. This does not mean that it belongs solely and exclusively to the Autonomous Community of La Rioja, but to a region whose name is the Rioja Qualified Denomination of Origin. Likewise, this wine-growing region encompasses areas of the provinces of La Rioja, Álava, Burgos and Navarra. Thanks to this regulatory council, Rioja wines have a unique quality guarantee that regulates and protects their production. For this reason, the Rioja denomination of origin is historically recognized by the Government of Spain.
Characteristics of Rioja Wines
There are four main grape varieties that characterize Rioja wines. These are Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo and Garnacha Tinta. These are used for the production of red crianza, reserva and gran reserva wines. Although they are not the only varieties, since Maturana, Monastrell, Viura, Chardonnay, Garnacha blanca, Tempranillo Blanco, Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc are also cultivated in a manner authorized by the Regulatory Council.
The soil and the climate are two fundamental factors in the quality of Rioja wine. Through the three subdivisions established by the Regulatory Council (Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Oriental) a total of 65,000 hectares of vineyards is calculated. The soil varies according to the different plots in the area, although generally they are balanced soils (sands, silts and clays), somewhat alkaline, organically poor and with little water retention in hot seasons. La Rioja therefore contains a high diversity of balanced soils ranging from ferrous clayey to calcareous.
Another peculiarity of Rioja wines is the climate of the region. All of La Rioja is influenced by an Atlantic climate, but with certain influences or microclimates depending on the area. Thus, depending on the orientation of the vineyard and the location area, it will have certain peculiarities. For example, those vineyards located near Sierra Cantabria or Sierra La Demanda will have some protection against the wind.
The wineries and the way they are produced also influence the quality of Rioja wines. There are centuries-old wineries with a lot of experience in the production of wine, these are generally located in the municipality of Haro, considered the capital of wine for this reason. Each winery has its own way of making wine, and can be classified into classic Rioja wines or modern Rioja wines. In the post "Classic Style VS Modern Style in La Rioja" of The Buy-wine blog you will learn the difference.
Buy Rioja wines
If you intend to buy Rioja wines this is the best online store. Here you will find more than 400 well-selected Rioja wine references for you. Wineries of the stature of Ramón Bilbao Reserva, Viña Pomal Crianza, Marqués de Cáceres or Vivanco Crianza are just some examples to buy Rioja wine on our website.
Through the filter you can select your preferences according to the type of grape, winery, area or format of wine you need. It is simple, but if you need any kind of help or advice, you can contact us and we will gladly help you. Buying Rioja wine and being a true expert is now easier than ever.
If you want to buy wine online and you have never done so, we guarantee you a great experience. We have been a wine distribution company for more than 20 years and all orders are 100% guaranteed. If you are not satisfied with your order, we will refund your money or exchange it for a new product. For any questions about your Rioja wine order or any other reference, you can contact us without any obligation.
