Rioja,Spain

Question 1

Identify 3 Sub Region in Spain and briefly describe each:

Answer 1

Alavesa- sited up to 800m into the Cantabrian Mountains,therefore cooler but Continental with Atlantic Influences rainfall around 500m

Alta-Vineyard sited 500-800m slightly warmer than Alavesa but still Continental with Atlantic Influences.Rainfall around 500m

Baja-Continental Hot summer and Severe Winters,with drought a problem in Summer as rainfall is as Low as 300m annually.

Question 2

Min Time in Cask.      Min Total Age
Gran Reserva
Reserva Rioja
Crianza Rioja
Toro Reserva
White Rioja Crianza
White Rioja Reserva

Answer 2

Gran Reserva. 24 60m
Reserva Rioja 12 36m
Crianza Rioja 12 24m
Toro Reserva. 12 36m
White Rioja Crianza 18m
White Rioja Reserva 18 m

Question 3

4 Grape Varieties that are used in the production of Red Rioja & describe their Main Characteristics:

1. Tempranillo
2. Garnacha Tinta
3. Graciano
4. Mazuelo (Carinera/Carignan)

Answer 3

1. Thick skinned, Low/medium acidity (in Rioja) with red fruits (strawberry,cherry), forming the base of most blends, good ability to age.Most widely planted variety 75%

2.High alcohol,early maturing,Light in color with Red Fruits(strawberry, cherry) Sweet Spices (cloves) and Pungent Spices (white pepper).
Used for blending to add alcohol.
15% of the vineyards.

3. Graciano-accounts for 5% Dark coloured, high in tannin and acidity,BLACK fruits,used to add the seasoning to blend as it is Exotic,Spicy and Perfumed.Good ability to age.
4. Mazuelo-high in tannin and acidity,dark fruited and used to add body and richness to a blend.Accounts for 5%