Spain

Question 1

When did quality wine that wasn’t sherry appear in Spain?

Answer 1

After Phyloxera & Oidium disrupted french viticulture in the mid 19th century, Marqués de Murrieta & Marqués de Riscal came to Rioja from Bordeaux and modernized their wine industry.

Question 2

What is Spain’s quality wine pyramid?

Answer 2

DOCa, DO Pago, DO & VCIG are DOP tier
VdlT is IGP tier

Question 3

What are the 3 approved label terms for aging used throughout Spain?

Answer 3

Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva

Question 4

What are the general requirements for Crianza wine? Any caveats?

Answer 4

Whites: 18mo total, 6mo oak
Reds: 2 years total, 6mo oak

casks must be 330L or smaller

Question 5

What are the general requirements for Reserva wine

Answer 5

Whites: 2 years total, 6mo oak
Reds: 3 years total, 1yr oak

Question 6

What are the general requirements for Gran Reserva wine?

Answer 6

Whites: 4 years total, 6mo oak
Reds: 5 years total, 18mo oak