Spain Flashcards
1
Q
Why did Cádiz become an important city for trading wine?
A
The port + wine making expertise of the sea faring Phoenicians that founded the city of Cadiz in around 1100BCE meant it quickly became important for trading of wine
2
Q
Why was Spain somewhat shielded from export interruptions due to European wars?
A
Because of its trade with newly founded colonies in the Americas
3
Q
Who brought back to Spain expertise in winemaking, cooperage and oak barriques from Bordeaux in late 18th Century?
A
Manuel Quintano y Quintano a canon in holy orders whose family produced wines
4
Q
Why did so few Rioja producers in the late 18th Century follow the lead of Manuel Quintano y Quintano and age Rioja wines in oak barriques?
A
It was ruled at the time there should be no price differential between various wines produced in Rioja and better practices and oak barrels were expensive - so it made higher quality wines unprofitable
5
Q
Why did Luciano de Murrieta, other the Marqués de Murrieta, and the Marqués de Riscal seek exile in Bordeaux?
A
The Spanish civil wars of the mid 19th Century and disputing the succession to the Spanish throne
6
Q
Who eventually persuaded the local government and producers in Rioja to adopt oak barriques?
A
Marqués de Murrieta and Marqués de Riscal. On their return from exile in Bordeaux they brought back new wine making expertise including maturation in barriques. The quality of their wines eventually convinced the local government and other producers that these techniques were the way forward
7
Q
Why did wines of Rioja flourish at the start of the phylloxera crisis?
A
French vineyards were among the first to be devastated by phylloxera louse. The wines of Rioja, both in their style and their closeness to the French border were a suitable replacement to satisfy this sudden demand, many new wineries were formed many around the railway station in Haro so wine could be easily shipped in bulk to France
8
Q
Why did Spain’s exports drop around the early 20th Century?
A
Phylloxera had now reached Rioja and other parts of Spain. Demand had dropped as France’s vineyards had recovered as the cause and remedy for Phylloxera was now known. Spain had also lost its overseas colonies so those two important export markets had shrunk
9
Q
When and why was Rioja’s Exporters Syndicate founded?
A
1907 to guarantee the authenticity of Rioja’s wines in export markets
10
Q
What was the first Spanish wine region to establish a regulatory council?
A
Rioja. In 1925 it became the first Spanish wine region to establish a regulatory council (Consejo Regulador).
11
Q
What hampered quality wine production in Spain for much of the 20th Century?
A
The Civil War of 1936-1939 which left the country in a dictatorship for nearly 40 years
Spanish economy devastated firstly through the immediate impact of the civil war and then the economic isolation of General Franck’s government
Wine production continued but mainly through cooperatives that were producing high volumes of inexpensive wines
Most Spanish winemakers had no experience of the wider wine world outside of Spain (Miguel Torres did study winemaking in France in 1960s and returned with new skills, techniques and varieties from France and Germany. French & German varieties, trellised vineyards, temperature controlled stainless steel tanks and wine lab
12
Q
What learnings from Miguel Torres bring back from his winemaking studies in France?
A
Started planting French & German varieties,
Vineyards trellised
Temperature controlled stainless steel tanks
Wine laboratory installed
The resulting wines from Penedès, Catalunya, showed what different styles were achievable in Spain and showed many others the path to follow
13
Q
What helped Spain’s modernisation of wine world?
A
From mid-1970s, Spain’s return to a constitutional monarchy and democratic rule led to greater economic freedom.
Spain’s accession to the EU in 1986 brought further investment in wine production
Modernisation swept the country with widespread investment in temperature control and stainless steel tanks so that the quality level of basic Spanish wine improved dramatically
1996 legalisation of irrigation means more regions could produce a viable crop - increasing production levels substantially
In the past 30 years greater research, investment, education and experience of international winemaking has benefited quality and diversity of Spanish wines at all price points.
14
Q
What latitude is Spain located at?
A
36-43°N
15
Q
What is Spain’s climate?
A
Spain is considered a warm country located at 36-43°N
However, with an extensive coastline, several significant mountain ranges and a large raised plateau (the Medway) covering its central regions, the climate can vary markedly over different wine regions
North West - influenced by the Atlantic, maritime climate with high levels of rainfall throughout the year. Many vineyard areas to the north and north east are sheltered somewhat from the Atlantic by mountains and have more of a continental climate though with some maritime or to the north east Mediterranean influences
South and Wast face directly onto the Mediterranean and vineyards in close proximity to the sea have a moderated climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters
The Meseta - at an altitude of 600-900m covers a vast area over central Spain. The climate here is continental with hot days and cool nights though altitude can help moderate the heat.
16
Q
What is the topography of Spain?
A
The country’s topography is a high plateau tilted from north east (Pyrenees) to South West (Andalucia) with lower ground formed by several major rivers along which many wine growing regions are found
17
Q
Which country has the largest vineyard plantings in the world?
A
Spain with 969,000 ha under production.
However, it is only the world’s third largest producer of wine by volume behind Italy and France with a five year average of 39million hL per annum
18
Q
How much wine does Spain produce annually?
A
39million hL per annum making it the world’s third largest producer of wine - behind Italy and France despite having the world’s largest plantings with 969,000 ha under production
19
Q
Why does Spain have the largest vineyard plantings but is only the third largest producer of wine?
A
Low density vineyards
Many Spanish vineyards are made up of bush vines planted at low density. In La Mancha, the largest DO (Denominación de Origen) in Spain, vines can be planted at densities as low as 1,000 vines per hectare
20
Q
What is the largest DO in Spain?
A
La Mancha
21
Q
Why does Spain have low density planting?
A
Low density planting is favourable in many regions due to the climate. With a low rainfall of 300mm in some parts of the country it is helpful to reduce competition between vines for soil water.
Bush vines often planted at low density - esp in La Mancha Spain’s largest DO where densities can be as low as 1,000 vines per hectare
22
Q
When was irrigation nationally legalised in Spain?
A
1996
23
Q
Who controls the irrigation rules in Spain?
A
The Consejo Regulador for each wine region
24
Q
Is irrigation allowed in Spain?
A
Yes irrigation is permitted in Spain and was legalised nationally in 1996.
It is it still controlled by the Consejo Regulador for each wine region.
For some regions is it only permitted in the establishment of young vines and in extreme cases of drought.
In others it may be permitted during the start of the growing season but not during the ripening period.
25
What are the main vineyard hazards/pests in Spain?
Mildew - when rain falls in heavy storms and temperatures rise quickly afterwards
Spring frosts - in areas with continental climates
European grapevine moths - one of the most common pests - generally managed through pheromone traps
26
Which regions in Spain were largely unaffected by phylloxera and why?
Toro and Rueda as they have Sandy soils and so we’re unaffected by phylloxera and as such have some plantings of incredible old ungrafted vines
27
Why do some Spanish producers employ organic practices but are not certified?
Many producers employ organic practices but far fewer are certified as such since they consider that few consumers in both domestic and export markets are willing to pay a premium for organic wine and hence contribute towards the cost of attaining and retaining certification
28
What is the size of average vineyard holding in Spain?
Small.
About 66% of vineyard plots are less than 0.5 ha in size
22% between 0.5-3ha
29
What is the impact of Spain’s smaller vineyard holdings?
The level of vineyard mechanism is still relatively limited - despite marked advances in understanding of vineyard management
66% of holdings under 0.5ha / 22% between 0.5ha - 3ha
30
What are the two grape varieties with by far the largest plantings in Spain?
Airén - white varietal, mainly planted in centre of Spain in Castilla-La Mancha, although it makes an inexpensive neutral white wine for early consumption, much of its production is distilled into Brandy de Jerez
Tempranillo
- the black grape variety is grown widely across several areas of Spain where it can be known by various synonyms
Can be used to make inexpensive, fruity red wines it is also a leading component in some of Spain’s most prestigious and expensive wines (Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Toro)
31
What are Spain’s top six planted grapes?
1. Airén
2. Tempranillo
3. Garnacha
4. Bobal
5. Macabeo
6. Monastrell
32
What are the key characteristics of Tempranillo?
Early ripening - produces finest wines in warm climates where there is some cooling influence such as altitude or cool winds
Provides raspberry and black plum fruit
Medium to medium + levels of tannin and acidity
Can produce medium-high yields of fruity inexpensive wines (although quality producers limit yields to produce concentrated structured wines)
33
Where is Bobal mostly grown?
This black grape variety is mostly grown near the east coast of Spain producing red and rosé wines - Utiel-Requena - Valencia & Murcia
34
Where is Garnacha Tinta mostly grown?
Same as Grenache in Rhône Valley
In Spain Garnacha produces red and rose wines in central north and Roth east communities of Rioja, Ana area, Catalunya and Aragon
35
Where is Macabeo mostly grown?
This white grape is mainly planted in Catalunya and used for both still wines and Cava.
It is also the main white variety in Rioja where it is called Viura and while it makes a number of inexpensive neutral wines it is also a leading component in many premium priced wines that have been fermented and matured in oak
36
Where is Monastrell mostly found?
Same variety as Mourvèdre in the Rhone Valley.
In Spain it produces red wines mostly around Valencia and Murcia.
Well suited to the warm Mediterranean climate in these regions as it is late ripening and needs heat in the late growing season to fully ripen
37
What is the maximum capacity of oak ageing vessels in Spain?
330L
38
What is the minimum ageing requirement for red Crianza in Spain?
24 months total ageing, minimum 6 months in barrel
39
What is the minimum ageing requirement for red Reserva in Spain?
36 months total ageing, 12 months in barrel
40
What is the minimum ageing requirement for red Gran Reserva in Spain?
60 months total, 18 months in barrel
41
What is the minimum ageing requirement for white and rosé Crianza in Spain?
18 months total, 6 months in barrel
For red wine it is 24 months total, 6 months in barrel
42
What is the minimum ageing requirement for white and rosé Reserva in Spain?
24 months total, 6 months in barrel
For red Reserva it is 36 months total, 12 months in barrel
43
What is the minimum ageing requirement for white and rosé Gran Reserva in Spain?
48 months total, 6 months in barrel
For red Gran Reserva it is 60 months total, 18 months in barrel
44
What are the main criticisms of the national ageing legislation in Spain?
Too prescriptive but also not prescriptive enough
It automatically suggests a hierarchy of excellence setting an expectation that Gran Reserva will be the highest quality of wine and hence the highest quality wines will be those aged for the longest periods in oak and bottle
This is not necessarily appropriate for all styles of wine
No quality requirement are specified beyond standard regulations of the denomination, the age or origin of oak is not specified and only a minimum given many producers age for far longer than the minimum
The ageing categories provide very little indication of the style, quality or value for the consumer
45
Why do some producers choose not to use Crianza, Reserva etc on labels in Spain?
Either because they choose not to meet the criteria for labelling terms (ageing their wines in larger vessels >330L
Or simply they do not believe the terms will benefit the selling potential or marketing of their wines
Rioja and Ribera del Duero terms are most commonly used others such as Bierzo and Priorat where they are not
46
What does the term ‘roble’ mean in Spanish wine?
Roble is Spanish for oak
It is increasingly used for wines typically red that have been matured in oak for an unspecified duration - usually less than the requirements for Crianza
47
What does the term Joven mean in Spanish wine?
Denotes wines that are released young often with no or minimal oak ageing
48
What oak is traditionally used in Spain?
American oak
49
Why is American oak traditionally used in Spain?
Originally due to strong trading relationship with American and the fact that is was relatively cheap compared to French oak
50
Where is French oak used most frequently in Spain?
It is particularly prevalent in Penedès, Priorat and Ribera del Duero
51
What has led to more very good quality rosés in Spain at mid and premium price points?
A better understanding of vineyard management and harvesting times
Improvements in winemaking
Focus on market trends
Have all led a move away from high alcohol wines with over ripe, jammy flavours
52
How are Spanish rosés most commonly made?
Fermented in stainless steel and bottled soon after
Although the most expensive wines may be fermented and matured in oak or stored on lees to enhance their texture and complexity.
53
What is known as a traditional style of Spanish rosé and who still makes them?
A small number of producers make rosé in a traditional style, most notably Bodegas López de Heredia.
These wines are typically made using a mixture of black and white grapes (mainly black) that are macerated (sometimes beyond the beginning of fermentation), pressed and then fermented together.
Often these wines are matured in oak vessels, sometimes for a long time, which leads to a reduction in fruit flavours but a greater texture and increased complexity from secondary and tertiary flavours.
54
What is a DO in Spain?
Denominación de Origen (DO) is the Spanish term for PDO wines. (Protected Designation of Origin)
There are 70 DOs in Spain and they make up the vast majority of plantings.
100% of the grapes used in the wine must come from the DO
55
What is DOCa/DOQ in Spain? And what must you do to qualify?
A higher level of DO (Denominación de Origen) part of the EU PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) system.
DOCa - Denominación de Origen Calificada
DOQ - same thing but in Catalan - Denominació d’Origen Qualificada
To apply to be a DOCa/DOQ
- the DO must have been established for a minimum of 10 years.
- all wines must be bottled at the producer’s own property
- the Denominación must have various quality regulations in place including a tasting assessment by an external panel and a process to audit these extra restrictions and regulations
56
What is a VP in Spain?
VP - Vino de Pago
It is a category that applies to a small number of single estates with high reputations.
The majority are in Castilla-La Mancha, with others in Navarra, Valencia and Aragon
Approved estates may only use their own grapes, which must be vinified and matured in their estate.
These wines are also within the PDO category.
This should not be confused with Grandes Pagos de España, an association of prestigious universities estates of which only some are qualified to label their wines as Vino de Pago
57
What is VT in Spain?
VT - Vino de la Tierra
A term commonly used for PGI (Protected Geographic Indication).
There are around 40 VTs in Spain, the largest being Castillo
85% of grapes must come from the VT
58
What does Vino mean as a wine classification in Spain?
Vino - a term for wines without a geographic indication
59
What are the 5 geographic wine classifications in Spain?
3 x PDOs (Protected Designation of Origin)
DO
Denominación de Origen
70 DOs in Spain
DOCa
Denominación de Origen Calificada
Denoninació d’Origen Qualificada (Catalan)
Rioja & Priorat
VP
Vino de Pago
1 x PGI Protected Geographical Indication
VT - Vino de la Tierra
40 x VTs the largest being Castillo
And just plain Vino - for wines without a geographical indication.
60
Which Spanish DO allows wine to be shipped in bulk?
La Mancha
61
What regulations are generally set and controlled by the local Consejo Regulador?
Maximum yields
Permitted grape varieties
Vineyard practices such as irrigation
Wine making regulations - including minimum ageing
Packing regulations (Rioja & Priorat require bottling within the region as for many DOs exception being the likes of La Mancha
62
What are some of the largest wine businesses for still wines?
```
J García Carrión
Félix Solís Avantis
Pernod Ricard Groupe
Miguel Torres SA
Martín Códax SA
```
Many if then have wineries in several regions in Spain
63
What is the domestic consumption of wine in Spain?
Relatively low compared fo other wine producing countries. 10.2m hL per annum
In recent years there’s been a trend towards drinking higher priced wines of DO status with falling wine sales without a designation of origin
64
How much wine does Spain export?
Spain exports a significant proportion of its wines
It is the world’s largest exporter of wine in terms of volume 21million hL in 2018
65
What major wine exporting country has the lowest price per litre?
Spain.
The average price per litre is under half that of Italy and one fifth of that of France
66
What country is the largest exporter of bulk wine?
Spain
56% of total wine exports in 2018 was bulk wine
67
What are Spain’s major export markets?
By volume: France and Germany
France (24% by vol)
Germany (17% by volume)
Both of these markets are important sources for selling inexpensive wine
UK, USA and China are next largest markets for volume yet import a fraction of the volume of France and Germany but are important for higher priced wines.
USA in particular having a high value to volume ratio
68
Where is Galicia?
Galicia is an autonomous community in the north west of Spain. It’s proximity to the Atlantic mean many if it’s wine regions experience cool and wet weather to a greater or lesser extent
69
What are the five major wine DOs in Galicia and what wines are they best known for?
Ríax Baixas DO - Albariño
Ribeiro DO - Mainly whites Treixadura is the most planted variety
Ribeira Sacra DO - Mencía (red)
Valdeorras DO - Godello (good/very good white)
Monterrei DO - mostly bulk but some good quality Mencía and fruity Godello
70
What is the largest DO in Galicia?
Rías Baixas DO
With a production of around 250,000 hL per annum a considerable increase since 1991 when only around 3,500 hL were produced
71
How much wine is produced in Rías Baixas?
Approx 250,000 hL per year, making it the largest DO in Galicia
A remarkable increase since 1991 when production was only 3,500 hL
72
What is the largest producer in Rías Baixas DO?
Bodegas Martín Códax works with over 300 growers
The DO has just over 4,000 ha of vines farmed by 5,500 grape growers.
170 wineries - cooperatives dominate
73
How many hectares of vines are there in Rías Baixas?
4,000 ha farmed by 5,500 grape growers
170 wineries from very small to very large producers (largest is Bodegas Martín Códax)
Cooperatives dominate
74
What happened in Rías Baixas post phylloxera?
Much of the vineyard land was replaced with hybrid varieties and high yielding Palomino vines
It was only in 1970/80s that incentives to grow indigenous varieties and modernise winery equipment led to significant improvements in the quality of wines
Able to provide quality wines in a desirable fresh and fruity style at an affordable price point wines of Rías Baixas quickly became popular in Spain and then within export markets
75
What happened in 1970/80s in Rías Baixas to make the wines more popular?
It was only in 1970/80s that incentives to grow indigenous varieties (in place of hybrids and Palomino planted post Phylloxera) and modernise winery equipment led to significant improvements in the quality of wines
Able to provide quality wines in a desirable fresh and fruity style at an affordable price point wines of Rías Baixas quickly became popular in Spain and then within export markets
76
What is the climate in Rías Baixas?
Rías Baixas has a distinct maritime climate.
Borders on the Atlantic Ocean.
The Atlantic moderates annual temperature giving warm summers and mild winters.
Annual rainfall is high at an average of 1,700mm which falls throughout the year.
This means that fungal diseases and rain just prior to harvest are key hazards that can lead to significant vintage variation
77
What is the average rainfall in Rías Baixas?
Annual rainfall is high at an average of 1,700mm which falls throughout the year.
This means that fungal diseases and rain just prior to harvest are key hazards that can lead to significant vintage variation
78
What are key hazards that can lead to significant vintage variation in Rías Baixas?
Annual rainfall is high at an average of 1,700mm which falls throughout the year.
This means that fungal diseases and rain just prior to harvest are key hazards that can lead to significant vintage variation
High winds
79
What is the soil like in Rías Baixas?
Mostly sand over granite bedrock that is free draining which ensures with so much rain (1,700mm /annum) the roots are not sitting in water
80
What makes up 95% of production in Rías Baixas?
Albariño
81
How important to Rías Baixas is Albariño?
Very it makes up 95% of production
82
What are key attributes of Albariño?
Well suited to damp climate having thick skins and less prone to damage from rot
Early to mid ripening - with a warming climate and improved viticultural practices it can fully ripen in most years
Produces wines that are high in acidity with medium (-) or medium body, medium levels of alcohol and aromas and flavours of apple, lemon, grapefruit and peach, sometimes with a floral note
83
What are the three grapes is Albariño sometimes blended with in Rías Baixas?
It is usually made a a single variety wine in Rías Baixas but other grape varieties are permitted.
Loureira (early ripening, medium+ acidity, aromatic citrus, pear, floral and herbal notes)
Treixadura (mid-ripening, low acidity, apple and peach flavours)
Caiño Blanco (late ripening, high acidity, citrus flavours)
84
What are the black grapes permitted in Rías Baixas?
Small volumes of local black grapes such as Sousón (same variety as Vinhäo in Vinho Verde) and Caiño Tinto are planted for red wines in Rías Baixas but form only 1% of production
85
What are the five sub zones of Rías Baixas? And what are they known for?
Val do Salnés - oldest, greatest number of plantings. Directly on the coast, coolest and wettest area producing wines with the greatest acidity
O Rosal - along the river Miño on border of Portugal. Wines often blends of Albariño, Loureira, Treixadura and Caiño Blanco. With south facing slopes on the north bank of the river it is usually warmer than Val do Salnés and so wines have slightly lower acidity
Condado do Tea - inland from O Rosal and hence even warmer. Wines that are riper in style with more peach fruity and slightly lower acidity and so easier to drink when young
Ribeira do Ulla - newest subzone - inexpensive mid-priced wines
Soutomaior - smallest subzone
86
Where is O Rosal and what it is known for?
A sub zone of Rías Baixas DO
O Rosal - along the river Miño on border of Portugal. Wines often blends of Albariño, Loureira, Treixadura and Caiño Blanco. With south facing slopes on the north bank of the river it is usually warmer than Val do Salnés and so wines have slightly lower acidity
87
Where is Val do Salnés and what is the climate /wines like?
A sub zone of Rías Baixas DO Galicia Spain.
Val do Salnés - oldest, greatest number of plantings. Directly on the coast, coolest and wettest area producing Albariño wines with the greatest acidity
88
What is the style of wines in Condado do Tea?
A sub zone of Rías Baixas, Galicia Spain specialising in Albariño.
Condado do Tea - inland from O Rosal and hence even warmer. Wines that are riper in style with more peach fruity and slightly lower acidity and so easier to drink when young
89
What is the style of Albariño wines from Rías Baixas?
Tend to be high in acidity with medium(-) or medium body, medium alcohol and aromas and flavours of peach, melon and lemon
They range from good to very good with some outstanding examples and mid-priced to premium
Producers known for their quality include Pazo de Senorans and Palacios de Fefiñanes
90
Name two producers in Rías Baixas known for their quality?
Pazo de Senorans
| Palacio de Fefiñanes
91
What is a popular trellising system in Rías Baixas?
The pergola - here called Parral
Often using granite stone supports in the humid atmosphere
Many of the bigger growers now use VSP trellising which allows for mechanisation
92
Why was pergola or parral trellising traditionally used in Rías Baixas? (It remains popular)
Originally used to allow the growth of other agricultural crops underneath as holdings were small.
Additional benefit is that when trained relatively high this system also promotes air circulation under the canopy reducing the likelihood of fungal diseases
93
What are the main winemaking techniques used in Rías Baixas?
Winemaking is generally protective to retain fresh fruit flavours.
White grapes may be macerated for a few hours to enhance the intensively of flavours and provide greater texture
Cool fermentation in stainless steel is typical and producers may encourage at least partial malolactic conversion in cool years to reduce malic acidity rather than to introduce overly buttery notes
Inexpensive wines may be released early from the winery.
More expensive examples are often stored on lees (sobre lias): one to two years being typical, but some wines may be stored longer.
Usually the lees are not stirred (or only occasionally) which could introduce some oxygen and the effect is mainly to the body and texture of the wine although some light creaminess may be evident
A few producers ferment their most expensive wines in oak. The use of oak may very from entirely large, old oak vessels purely giving texture to a proportion of new oak giving toasty, vanilla notes.
94
What is the biggest export market for Rías Baixas?
USA followed by UK
95
How important are exports to Rías Baixas?
Growing. Over a quarter of sales come from exports, this has increased significantly over the last couple of decades in 2000 only 1/10 of sales came from exports
Biggest export market is USA followed by UK
96
What are the two main grapes grown in other Galician wine regions aside from Rías Baixas?
Godello & Mencía
97
Where is Ribeiro DO?
Ribeiro DO is located to the east of Southern Rías Baixas and is the most westerly DO in Galicia
98
What is the climate in Ribeiro DO?
It is has a maritime climate with temperate conditions and high rainfall although is slightly more sheltered than Rías Baixas
99
What wines is Ribeiro DO known for?
White wines
Treixadura is the most planted variety and is made either as a single variety of as the lead component in a white blend with other Galician varieties
100
How are the most expensive wines in Ribiera DO fermented?
It is not unusual for producers to ferment or mature their most expensive wines in oak
101
Where is Ribeira Sacra DO?
Galicia, Spain
Further inland than Rías Baixas or Ribeiro DO it follows the valley of the River Miño northwards and of the River Sol eastwards from their confluence
102
What is the climate in Ribeira Sacra DO?
The climate is mostly continental but depending on the exposure of the site their can be maritime influences
103
What is the topography of Ribeira Sacra DO?
Most of the vineyards are situated on very precipitous and deep valley sides at various altitudes and aspects.
The stony slopes provide good drainage and conduct the heat during the day but make viticulture extremely labour intensive
104
Why is viticulture extremely labour intensive in Ribeira Sacra DO?
Vineyards are situated on very precipitous and deep valley sides at various altitudes and aspects. The stoney slopes provide good drainage and conduct heat during the day but make viticulture extremely labour intensive
105
Where is Valdeorras DO?
Galicia, Spain
| Located further up the River Sol than Ribeira Sacra DO it is the most easterly of the Galician DOs
106
What is the climate in Valdeorras DO?
It has a continental climate being the most easterly of the Galician DOs furthest away from the coast
Although it still has plentiful rain approx 700-1000mm per annum
107
What is the altitude of vineyards in Valdeorras DO?
Vineyards are planted at altitudes of approx 300m
108
What wines is Valdeorras DO best known for?
Valdeorras DO has gained a reputation as a producer of good and very good quality Godello
The wines show citrus and stone fruit sometimes with a herbal or wet stone character and generally medium (+) acidity.
Premium versions are often fermented and or matured in oak to lend texture and a little toasty spicy complexity.
Mencía is the most important black variety but relatively little is planted compared to Godello
109
What is the style of Godello wines produced in Valdeorras DO?
Valdeorras DO has gained a reputation as a producer of good and very good quality Godello
The wines show citrus and stone fruit sometimes with a herbal or wet stone character and generally medium (+) acidity.
Premium versions are often fermented and or matured in oak to lend texture and a little toasty spicy complexity.
110
Where is Monterrei DO?
Galicia, Spain
Monterrei DO is located some way south of Ribeira Sacra, on the border of Portugal
111
What is the climate in Monterrei DO?
Continental
Being inland it is sheltered from the ocean influence by the Sierra de Larouca Mountains.
It has a continental climate with hot summers and relatively low rainfall
112
What mountain range shelters Monterrei DO from ocean influence?
The Sierra de Larouca mountains
113
What wines is Monterrei DO known for?
Much of the production is inexpensive wine sold in bulk but the region is starting to make some good quality Mencía usually in a riper style than those of Ribeira Sacra and some fruity Godello
114
What is the topography and climate of Castilla y León?
The autonomous community of Castilla y León covers a vast area in the north of Spain.
It is made up of a high altitude plateau (the northern part of the meseta) with mountains to the north and south.
As a result many of its wine regions have continental climates, though with some maritime influence towards the west.
115
What are the main DOs /VT in Castilla y León?
Bierzo DO
Toro DO
Ribera del Duero DO
Rueda DO
Castilla y León VT
116
Who changed the game for wines in Bierzo DO?
Alvaro Palacios and his nephew Ricardo Pérez in the late 1990s
Until then Bierzo made rather rustic wines for the local market
It was the arrival of Palacios, attracted by the slate slopes in the area (similar to the vineyards that had made their reputations in Priorat) that first demonstrated to the international market that Bierzo could make high quality wines and gave Bierzo winemakers and growers the confidence to strive for quality and higher prices
117
Where is Bierzo DO?
In the north west of Castilla y León
118
What is the climate of Bierzo DO?
It is climatically similar to some of the Galician wine regions but being further still inland it has warmer summers, cooler winters and lower but still adequate rainfall.
The region has mountains or hills on three sides but opens to the West allowing some maritime influence.
Some years can be cool and rainy whereas others can be warm and dry leading to marked vintage variation
119
What is the main grape variety in Bierzo DO?
Mencía making up 75% of all plantings
Some Godello and other white Galician varieties are also grown
2% of plantings are Alicante Bouschet which can be added to any red wine blend but many are 100% Mencía
120
What must make up a minimum of 70% in any red blend from Bierzo DO?
Mencía
With Alicante Bouschet a red fleshed variety giving deep colour and red and black fruit making up the difference
However only 2% of plantings in Bierzo are Alicante Bouschet - so many wines are made from 100% Mencía
121
What is Mencía?
A black grape variety grown famous in Bierzo
Early to mid ripening that can lose its characteristic medium (+) or high acidity and quickly accumulate sugar resulting in high alcohol wines if picked too lye
It produces wines that range from light bodied and fruity with medium tannins to more concentrated examples with fuller bodies and higher tannins depending on the growing conditions and wine making practices
122
What is the topography in Bierzo DO and how does this influence the wines produced?
The flat plain in the middle of the DO and the lower slopes of the mountain have fertile, silty loam soils and tend to be the source of inexpensive or mid priced wines grown at relatively high yields
These wines are often medium (-) in body and tannins with flavours of red fruits such as raspberry and cherry. They are made for early consumption and sometimes made by carbonic or semi carbonic maceration. They are usually not matured in oak. These wines are often good quality and mid priced.
The best vineyards are generally located on hillside slopes at 590-850m that have good drainage and together with shallow, poor slate soils limits vigour.
The altitude of the vineyards is a cooling influence and this and a large diurnal range, helps to slow sugar accumulation and retain acidity while flavours and tannins develop.
The steepness of the slopes and the age of some vineyards means that bush vines are common. The area has a significant proportion of old vines with around 80% of vineyards estimated to be over 60 years old. This together with poor soils means that average yields are low and the overall costs of production are high.
Wines from the slopes tend to show more concentration that those from the plain with medium to medium (+) body and tannins, higher alcohol and ripe red cherry and plum fruit sometimes with a floral or herbal note. They are often matured in oak contributing to a spicy character but care has to be taken not to mask Mencía’s more delicate aromas. These wines are often very good to outstanding in quality and are mid-priced to premium with some super premium examples. Significant producers include Descendientes de J Palacios and Raul Pérez.
123
What is the style of the best Mencía wines in Bierzo DO?
Wines from the slopes tend to show more concentration that those from the plain with medium to medium (+) body and tannins, higher alcohol and ripe red cherry and plum fruit sometimes with a floral or herbal note. They are often matured in oak contributing to a spicy character but care has to be taken not to mask Mencía’s more delicate aromas. These wines are often very good to outstanding in quality and are mid-priced to premium with some super premium examples. Significant producers include Descendientes de J Palacios and Raul Pérez.
The best vineyards are generally located on hillside slopes at 590-850m that have good drainage and together with shallow, poor slate soils limits vigour.
The altitude of the vineyards is a cooling influence and this and a large diurnal range, helps to slow sugar accumulation and retain acidity while flavours and tannins develop.
The steepness of the slopes and the age of some vineyards means that bush vines are common. The area has a significant proportion of old vines with around 80% of vineyards estimated to be over 60 years old. This together with poor soils means that average yields are low and the overall costs of production are high.
124
What proportion of vines in Bierzo DO are thought to be from old vines?
Around 80% of vines in Bierzo DO are estimated to be over 60 years old
125
What are some significant quality producers in Bierzo DO?
Significant producers include Descendientes de J Palacios and Raul Pérez
126
Why are so many bush vines found in Bierzo DO?
The steepness of the slopes and the age of vineyards means that bush vines are common.
80% of vineyards though to be over 60 years old
127
At what altitude are the best vineyards in Bierzo DO?
500-850m in hillside slopes
128
When did Somontano become a DO?
1984
129
How much wine is produced in Bierzo DO?
Approx 96,000hL
130
How many vineyards are there in Bierzo DO?
Almost 3,000 ha is planted and tended by over 2,000 growers many with very small plots.
This means tending by machine is very rare
Almost half of the growers are associated with one of the regions cooperatives
Bierzo DO has 75 wineries many of which have been established in the last 10-15 years
131
What new regulations were introduced in Bierzo DO in 2017?
New classifications based on specific geographical characteristics that will be used to designate wines sourced exclusively from villages or vineyards of particular note with significant restrictions on yields from the DO.
This is similar to the classifications recently introduced in DOQ Priorat.
132
Where is Toro DO?
Toro is located in the West of Castilla y León far inland
133
What climate does Toro DO have?
Located far inland it has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, which combined with its altitude (620-750 metres) means that the region has a large diurnal temperature range with cool nights that help maintain activity in the grapes
134
What vineyard hazard does Toro sometimes suffer from?
Spring frosts - due to cool nights - altitude and cold winters
135
What is the main grape in Toro DO?
Tinta de Toro, considered by some to be a form of Tempranillo that has adapted to the local climate
136
How is Tinta de Toro different to Tempranillo?
The intensity of the sun means Tinta de Toro has thicker skins than Tempranillo grown elsewhere in Spain, resulting in wines with greater colour and higher tannin levels
137
What must red wines from Toro comprise?
Red wines from Toro must be a minimum of 75% Tinta de Toro with the remainder being Garnacha.
Rosé can be either Toro or Garnacha
White wines can be from Malvasia or Verdejo
138
Is irrigation permitted in Toro?
Yes but irrigation is not permitted from June until after harvest
Rainfall is low in Toro DO
To manage limited water, many vineyards are planted at low density with a low number of bunches per vine.
The maximum density of plantings is a low 2,709 per hectare.
Bush vines make up the vast majority of plantings
139
How are vines trained in Toro?
The majority of plantings are bush vines in Toro planted at low density with a low number of bunches per vine (2,700 per hectare is the maximum planting density permitted)
140
What is the maximum planting density permitted in Toro DO?
2,700 per hectare very low
141
How much rainfall does Toro DO receive?
Low rainfall
To manage limited water many vineyards are planted at low density with a low number of bunches per vine.
The maximum planting density is 2,700 per hectare
142
Why has phylloxera not been a problem in Toro DO?
Sandy soils in the region mean that Phylloxera has not been a problem and many vines are ungrafted.
Around 1/5 of vines are over 50 years old and a number of vines are over 100 years old
143
Does Toro have many old vines?
Yes around 1/5 if vines are over 50 years old and a number of vines are over 100 years old
144
What is the style of wines in Toro DO?
The use of the thick skinned Tinta de Toro, a warm growing season, intense sun and low yields all contribute to producing wines that are deep in colour, full bodied and often have high alcohol, with high tannins and ripe flavours of blackberry and blue berry.
But the cool nights help to delivery medium (+) or even higher levels of acidity.
145
What is the maximum alcohol level specified for Toro DO reds?
The Consejo permits a maximum alcohol level of 15% abv for red wines and lower levels for white and rosés
146
Why is site selection important for Toro DO?
Site selection can be important. Cooler sites provide slower ripening and can be found at the higher altitude west of the region and by choosing north facing aspects
147
What winemaking interventions are sometimes used for inexpensive/mid priced wines in Toro DO?
Carbonic maceration to boost fruity flavours and extract less tannin making an approachable/early drinking style - they tend to be of acceptable to good quality
148
What are two producers known for their quality in Toro DO?
Teso la Monja
| Numanthia
149
What are premium and super premium wines from Toro aged in?
New Oak
The concentration of fruit in premium and super premium wines means they can balance the high proportions of new oak.
Here both American and French oak is used
Two producers known for their quality are Teso La Monja and Numanthia
150
How much wines is produced in Toro DO?
96,000 hL
151
How many wineries are in Toro?
Approx 50 up from just 8 in 1998
152
What led to increased land prices in Toro DO?
When it’s neighbour Ribera del Duero became popular land prices in Toro rose sharply and investors started to show interest in the region
153
What was the first winery to be established in Ribera del Duero?
Vega Sicilia in the late 19th Century
154
When was the Ribera DO formed and how many wineries existed there then vs today?
Ribera del Duero DO was established in 1982
At that time there were just 9 wineries
Today there are over 280
155
When did the number of wineries and plantings in Ribera del Duero start to explode and why?
Until the 1990s there were very few wineries in Ribera Del Duero
When the DO was formed in 1982 there were just 9 wineries
The winery that sparked the change was Alejandro Fernandez’s Pesquera
After these wines started to win international acclaim in the 1980s many producers, who up until that point were sending their grapes to local coops, were inspired to vinify their grapes to make wines and bottle it under their own labels
Furthermore, the relative proximity to Madrid meant that it soon became popular with Spanish fine wine drinkers.
Much investment has also come from wineries in other region, particularly Rioja and Catalunya
156
Which winery sparked an explosion of plantings and investments in Ribera del Duero?
Alejandro Fernandez’s Pesquera
After these wines started winning international awards in the 1980s it inspired other producers to vinify their own wines and bottle under their own label
157
Is the rapid investment in Ribera all positive?
The investment in the area has undoubtedly been positive and has boosted the status of the region as a whole.
However, many relatively newly founded wineries are still finding their feet and with such a rapid expansion of vineyard area, there is a potential danger that the overall quality of the region could be diluted
158
Where is Ribera del Duero?
Ribera del Duero lies in the upper valley of the River Duero in Castilla y León
159
What is the climate of Ribera del Duero?
Continental
It has a similar climate to Toro and Rueda to the West
Although summers are slightly hotter and winters colder and the vineyards are even higher in altitude (750-1000 m)
160
What is the main climatic hazard in Ribera del Duero?
Frosts are a problem and occur in both Spring and Autumn limiting the time grapes can be left on the vine and causing serious loss of yield in some years.
161
What is done to counter frosts in Ribera del Duero?
Use of heaters, vine spraying with water and occasionally even helicopters are used to combat spring and autumn frosts and prevent serious loss of yield
162
What is the level of rainfall in Ribera del Duero?
Relatively low at 400-600mm
However irrigation can be used at certain times in the year but not during the ripening period
163
What sites in Ribera del Duero are most at risk of frost?
Flat sites and north facing sites
164
What is Tempranillo called locally in Ribera del Duero?
Tinto Fino or Tinta del País
165
What is the topography like in Ribera del Duero DO?
There are a range of altitudes and aspects with the eastern side of the appellation higher and cooler.
The use of different sites with slight changes in climate or aspects can be useful in gaining balance, complexity and ensuring consistent yields (flat sites and north facing sites are most at risk of frost)
166
How much of Ribera del Duero is planted as bush vines?
Around half of vineyards are planted to bush vines
167
How old are the vines in Ribera del Duero?
Around a quarter of vineyard plantings are over 50 years old, with a number of vines over 100 years old
168
How big are the plots in Ribera del Duero?
Small. The vast majority of growers have plots under 1ha
169
How are newer vineyards planted in Ribera del Duero?
Newer vineyards are often planted on trellises as these are quicker to establish
But over half of vineyards in the DO are planted to bush vines and around a quarter of vineyard plantings are over 50 years old with some vines over 100 years old
170
What changed in DO regulations in Ribera del Duero DO in 2019?
White wines were permitted to be made in Ribera del Duero DO.
Previously only red and rosé wines were permitted.
The local white variety is Albillo Mayor which must make up 75% of any blend
171
What is the local white grape variety in Ribera del Duero and what proportion of a blend must it comprise?
Albillo Mayor it must make up 75% of any blend
172
What percentage of Tempranillo or Tinto Fino must comprise any red blend in Ribera del Duero DO?
Red wine blends in Ribera del Duero must be a minimum of 75% Tempranillo - Tinto Fino
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Garnacha and Albillo (white to add freshness to the blend in theory but rarely used in practice) are also permitted
173
What is the style of red wine from Ribera del Duero DO?
Many are entirely Tempranillo
Wines tend to be full bodied, often with high alcohol and ripe flavours of blackberry and plum with vanilla and chocolate notes from new oak.
174
How are wines in Ribera del Duero generally aged?
French oak is popular although some wineries use a mix of American and French oak.
It is not uncommon for premium and super premium wines to be matured in 50-100% new oak
175
What is the trend for quality focused red wines from Ribera del Duero?
There is a general trend for less extraction with less time on skins post fermentation and or less new oak amongst quality focused producers
176
What are some good quality driven producers in Ribera del Duero?
Vega Sicilia
Dominio de Pingus
Bodegas Aalto
177
How is the majority of wine labels re age classifications in Ribera del Duero DO?
The majority of wines are labelled without an ageing category specified
But Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva are commonly used
Crianza is by far the most produced and Gran Reserva quite rare
178
How much wine does Ribera del Duero produce?
A lot between 600,000 -700,000 hL
179
How much of Ribera del Duero is exported?
In 2019 almost 20% of production was exported
180
What are the main export markets for Ribera del Duero?
```
Switzerland
Mexico
USA
Germany
China
```
By volume
181
What wines is Rueda DO known for?
Almost entirely white wines from local Verdejo grape - fresh, fruity wines
182
What was the style of wine in Rueda 50 years ago?
An oxidative fortified wine
183
Where is Rueda DO?
In Castilla y León to the east of Toro and West of Ribera del Duero
184
Who was the first producer to popularise Verdejo wines in Rueda DO? And when?
Marqués de Riscal winery in Rioja - their investment in Rueda was the catalyst for the region’s transformation
Many other producers followed their lead and this style of fresh, fruity wine wine made protectively in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks is now synonymous with the region
185
What is the climate of Rueda DO?
Continental - similar to Toro and Ribera del Duero Rueda has hot, dry summers, cold winters and low rainfall
Vineyards are at 700-800m altitude resulting in cool nights that help to retain acidity
186
What is the soil in Rueda?
The bedrock in the region is limestone, with a Sandy clay sub-layer and a top soil of stones or sand.
This tends to be free draining and low in organic matter reducing the vigor of the vines
187
What is the key grape of Rueda DO?
Verdejo
188
Why does Verdejo do well in Rueda?
It is relatively drought tolerant and able to withstand the lack of rainfall in the region
189
What is the style of Verdejo in Rueda DO?
Medium to medium (+) acidity
Medium alcohol
Apple, pear and peach characteristics often with a herbal (fennel) note and a slight bitterness on the finish
190
What is the other key wine in Rueda? Aside from Verdejo?
Sauvignon Blanc - used either in a blend with Verdejo or as a single varietal wine
191
How are vines planted in Rueda?
New vineyards tend to be VSP tresllised - allowing for night harvesting
There are some very old bush vines - some on Sandy soils that predate phylloxera- which account for around 10% of plantings
192
When are grapes harvested in Rueda?
Night harvesting is desirable to allow grapes to be picked and transported at the coolest temperatures - VSP trellising makes this possible
193
How are most inexpensive wines in Rueda generally made?
In a protective way with cool fermentation in stainless steel vessels and are bottled to be sold soon after
Cultured yeasts are used for their reliability and to promote fruity flavours of the wines as in much of Spain’s white wine production.
Quality levels are generally acceptable to good
194
How are many mid-priced wines made in Rueda?
Mid priced wines tend to have undergone a period of lees ageing from a few months to one year often with regular lees stirring which brings body and texture to the wine
Frequently the most expensive Rueda in a producers range is still mid-priced and is fermented and or matured in oak bringing body and texture as well as aromatic complexity from toasty, Smokey notes
These wines are often good or very good in quality.
195
What are some very good significant producers in Rueda?
Ossian
| Bodega Belondrade y Lurton
196
How much had production in Rueda grown in recent years?
Exponentially. From 2000-2019 production volumes have almost quadrupled
Around 616,000 hL was produced in 2018
197
How much have Rueda wines sales increased in recent years?
Substantially - in 20 years from 1997-2916 sales have increased almost 7 fold
198
What is driving the growth of Rueda wines?
Domestic consumption mostly although export markets have also grown (just 80,000 of 616,009 hL of production exported
Fruity, crisp early drinking style together with inexpensive price point had been extremely popular in domestic and export markets
Although given increased competition Rueda producers are increasingly looking to produce wines of higher quality and with more character
199
How much of total output in Rueda is made from wineries owned by companies outside of the region?
40% a number of Rioja and Ribera Del Duero producers for example have a Rueda as a white wine in their portfolio
200
What are the main export markets for Rueda?
Netherlands
Germany
USA
Switzerland
By volume
80.000 hL of 616,000 total production is exported
201
What is the climate in Castilla y León VT?
Continental - land on northern part of the meseta is protected from any Atlantic influence to the north by mountains
Summer temperatures are moderated by Altitude
202
What wines are produced in Castilla y León VT?
It allows producers located within any DO boundaries to make wines in styles or from grape varieties not permitted in their DO
Many of the wines are inexpensive or mid priced
203
What is the number of plantings in Castilla y León VT?
Relatively low 9,000 ha whereas DO plantings within its boundaries make up over 63,000 ha
204
Where is Rioja DOCa?
North of Spain
North East of main DOC in Castilla y León
Bordered to the east by DO of Navarra
205
How long is Rioja DOCa?
It is 100km long and runs north-west to south-east along the path of the River Ebro and reaches approx 40km wide in places
206
How wide is the widest point of Rioja DOCa?
It reaches 40km wide in places and is 100km long
207
Which main river does Rioja DOCa follow?
The River Ebro
208
What geographical feature protects the north of Rioja from the worst of the Atlantic weather?
The Sierra de Cantabria mountain range
209
What geographical feature to the south of Rioja shelters vineyards from the warmer weather in the centre of the country?
The Sierra de la Demanda part of the Sistema Ibérico the mountain range on the north east edge of the Meseta
210
What direction does the River Ebro flow?
From the higher north west to the lower south east
211
In which province do most of Rioja’s vineyards lie?
Most of Rioja’s vineyards lie in the autonomous community of La Rioja but also some in the province of Álava in the Basque Country and a smaller number in the province of Navarra
212
How many zones is Rioja DOCa divided up into?
3
Rioja Alta
Rioja Alavesa
Rioja Oriental
213
Why has it been suggested that a remapping and renaming of Rioja’s zones could be helpful?
While it is possible to make broad generalisations on the climates of Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Oriental the topography and soils are so varied a remapping and renaming of the Rioja zones might be helpful
214
Where is Rioja Alta?
Rioja Alta lies predominantly to the south of the River Ebro and to the west of the city of Logroño
215
Which is the largest of the three Rioja zones?
Rioja Alta
216
What is the climate in Rioja Alta?
Generally continental with some maritime influences.
The area around the River Ebro is at relatively low altitudes and hence relatively warm with a range of alluvial soils.
The north west corner of the zone is cooler and wetter and the soils are calcareous clay
The southern part of the zone is at altitudes of 700m, it is relatively cool and wet and had patches of ferrous (iron rich) clay
217
What are the soil types in Rioja Alta?
The area around the River Ebro has a range of alluvial soils
The north west corner has calcareous clay
The southern part of the zone has patches of ferrous clay (iron rich)
218
What is the smallest Rioja zone?
Rioja Alavesa
219
Where is Rioja Alavesa?
Rioja Alavesa lies to the west of the city of Logroño but to the north of the river Ebro, directly corresponding to the vineyards in the Basque Country.
220
What is the climate in Rioja Alavesa?
Relatively cool and wet, similar to the north west of Rioja Alta
221
What is the altitude of vineyards in Rioja Alavesa?
Vineyards are located up to around 700m
222
What is the soil type in Rioja Alavesa?
Soils are calcareous clay
223
Where is Rioja Oriental?
It lies to the east of the city of Logroño both north and south of the River Ebro
224
What did Rioja Oriental used to be known as?
Rioja Baja - describing the low position further down the River Ebro
225
Why did Rioja Baja change it’s name to Rioja Oriental?
Rioja Baja was named so because of its position further down the course of the River Ebro but as it also means low this was thought to have negative connotations about the quality of the wines and it was renamed Rioja Oriental to reflect its position east of the city of Logroño
226
Where is the warmest and driest part of Rioja?
The northern part of Rioja Oriental around the river Ebro is relatively low altitude and is the warmest and driest area in Rioja
227
What are the soil types in Rioja Oriental?
A mix of Calcareous clay and ferrous (iron rich) clay in the south of the zone
More alluvial soils at low altitudes around the river Ebro
228
What is the altitude in the southern part of Rioja Oriental?
500-1000m in altitude - at the highest altitudes temperatures can be just as cool as those in Rioja Alta and Alavesa and soils a mixture of calcareous clay and ferrous (iron rich) clay
229
How has climate change affected Rioja and which areas are most at risk?
Over the last few decades climate change has made high altitude vineyards more viable, whereas previously grapes would struggle to ripen.
The area most at risk from climate change is thought to be the low altitude vineyards in Rioja Oriental, which is already warm and suffers from drought
230
Why can vintage variation be so marked in Rioja? And what can help counter this?
Vintage variation can be marked as in any year Parts of Rioja may receive lore of less influence from the Atlantic (bringing cooler, wetter weather) and the Mediterranean (behind warmer, drier weather)
However it is difficult to generalise any vintage characteristics over such a large and varied region. Some producers aim to produce consistent products year on year, where blending can be an important part of attaining such consistency, whereas other producers look to make wines that represent the vintage.
231
How many hectares of vineyards are there in Rioja and how does this compare to 1990?
There are currently just over 64,000 ha of vineyards in Rioja an increase of 50% compared to plantings in 1990 and a figure that is still growing gradually
232
How much wine is produced in Rioja?
Around 3m hL
233
How are vineyards trellised in Rioja and why?
When Spain joined the EU in 1986 funds became available for restructuring of vineyards and now a significant proportion are trellised with VSP making mechanisation more viable.
However Rioja still has a consideration plantings of old bush vines some being over 100 years old
234
What are the dominant grape varieties in Rioja?
Black grape varieties make up almost 90%
```
Tempranillo (86% of black grapes)
Garnacha (8% of black grapes
Graciano (2% of black grapes)
Mazuelo (2% of black grapes)
Maturana Tinta - permitted since 2009 plantings tiny but increasing
Cabernet Sauvignon - permitted but small
```
```
White
Viura (Macabeo) 70% of white plantings
Tempranillo Blanco -13% of white plantings
Malvasía
Garnacha Blanca
Verdejo
Sauvignon Blanc
```
235
What percentage of black grape plantings does Tempranillo make up in Rioja? And how does this compare to 50 years ago?
It makes up 88% of plantings of black grape varieties (which constitute 90% of all plantings).
It’s dominance is a relatively recent phenomenon as 50 years ago there was a greater diversity in grape varieties planted with similar sizes of plantings of Tempranillo and Garnacha
236
Why were many Garnacha vines replanted with Tempranillo in Rioja Oriental?
Tempranillo’s ability to reliably produce larger yields (esp if quan vs qual was the focus) meant meany Garnacha vines especially in Rioja Oriental were replanted with Tempranillo
The legislation of irrigation compounded this action as Garnacha’s suitability to drought conditions became less important
Nowadays quality focused producers in Rioja Oriental have begun to replant Garnacha which is considered to be better suited to the warm, dry conditions than the early ripening Tempranillo
237
Why is Tempranillo so well suited to Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa?
Early ripening and ability to ripen even in cooler, high altitude sites with cool clay soils
238
What does Tempranillo add to red Rioja?
It’s a dominant component of Rioja red and often produced as a single varietal wine.
Provides raspberry and black plum fruit. Medium to medium (+) levels of tannin and acidity
239
Where is Garnacha best suited to in Rioja?
To the warmer dry conditions of Rioja Oriental in the northern part particularly around the River Ebro at low altitude
240
What is the second most planted grape variety in Rioja?
Garnacha
Makes up only 8% of black grape plantings though
241
What % of black grape plantings does Garnacha make up in Rioja?
8% - well suited to warm, dry conditions of Rioja Oriental - more quality focused producers have begun to replant with Garnacha
242
What does Garnacha add to a red Rioja blend?
Ripe strawberry fruit, lower tannins and a fuller body
243
What are the key characteristics of Graciano and what does it add to a Rioja blend?
Late ripening
Drought resistant but only produces small yields and is susceptible to fungal diseases
It contributes high acidity and tannin and fresh black fruit flavours to a Rioja blend
It is occasionally produced as a single varietal wine
It makes up just over 2% of black plantings in Rioja
244
What is Mazuelo in Rioja also known as?
Cariñena in Spain
| Carignan in South of France
245
What is Mazuelo?
A black grape variety used to contribute high acidity to Rioja blends
Makes up around 2% of Rioja plantings
246
What became a permitted grape variety in Rioja in 2009?
Maturana Tinta - a black grape that contributes deep purple colour, high acidity and fresh cranberry and blackberry flavours to a blend
Plantings are very small but growing
Also called Trousseau in Jura
247
What is Maturana Tinta known as in Jura?
Trousseau
248
What does Maturana Tinta add to a Rioja blend?
Deep purple colour, high acidity, fresh cranberry and blackberry flavours
249
What are the most important white grape varieties permitted in the production of white Rioja?
- Viura (Macabeo/Macabeu) 70% of plantings
- Tempranillo Blanco - 13% of plantings
- Malvasía & Garnacha Blanca
- Verdejo & Sauvignon Blanc
250
What is the most planted white grape variety in Rioja?
Viura - makes up 70% of plantings of white varieties and around 6.5% of total Rioja plantings
251
What is Viura grape variety also known as in Spain?
Outside of Rioja often called Macabeo
252
What is Viura variety known as in France?
Macabeu (Roussillon)
253
Why is Viura best suited to warm dry sites (in Rioja)?
It is late budding, late ripening and susceptible to botrytis
254
What is Viura?
White grape variety
Most planted white grape variety in Rioja (70%)
Relatively Neutral - can make a range of styles
Simple whites for early consumption - when grown at high yields and fermented in stainless steel
Concentrated, complex wines with long ageing potential when grown for lower yields and matured in oak vessels
Late budding, late ripening and susceptible to botrytis - therefore suited to warm, dry sites
Known as Macabeo in other areas of Spain and Macabeu in Roussillon, France
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When was Tempranillo Blanco first discovered?
This white mutation of Tempranillo was first discovered in 1988
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When did Tempranillo Blanco become a permitted variety for Rioja?
2004
This white mutation of Tempranillo was first discovered in 1988
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What grape makes up 13% of white plantings in Rioja?
Tempranillo Blanco
This makes it the second most planted grape variety in Rioja
Plantings have risen quickly - it was only discovered in 1988 and became a permitted variety for Rioja in 2004.
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What is the style of wines made from Tempranillo Blanco?
It produces wines with high acidity and flavours of lemon, grapefruit and pineapple
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What is Tempranillo Blanco?
White grape variety
White mutation of Tempranillo
First discovered in 1988
Became a permitted variety for Rioja in 2004
Now makes up 13% of white plantings in Rioja
Second most planted white grape variety in Rioja - plantings have risen quickly
Produces wines with high acidity and flavours of lemon, grapefruit and pineapple
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How are Malvasía and Garnacha Blanca typically used in Rioja?
As blending components to add a greater diversity of flavours (and acidity in the case of Garnacha Blanca)
Generally used in oak matured mid-priced and premium Rioja wines
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How are Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc typically used in Rioja?
Made either into single varietal wines or lend aromas to blends with Viura typically in inexpensive, unoaked styles
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What size barrels does the Rioja Consejo specify for the ageing of Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva wines?
225L barriques
263
What are ‘vinos de autor’ signature wines in relation to Rioja?
A style of premium wine created in Rioja in 1990s by a handful of producers that eskewed the ageing requirements.
They did not specify any age and therefore fitted into category of generic wine
But they were anything but generic
Low yields and selected parcels of wines were used to make very ripe-fruited, concentrated and structured wines that had been aged in new French oak
These wines often termed ‘Vinos de autor’ signature wines were a significant departure from many of the wines made in previous decades that did not so much focus on concentration and extraction and underwent long ageing (often much longer than the minimum) in American oak, resulting in wines with aromas of dried fruit, mushroom, cured meats and vanilla and coconut.
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What are the two stylistic camps of Rioja?
Traditional wines - long ageing (often much longer than regs dictate) in American oak resulting in wines with aromas of dried fruit, mushroom, cured meat, vanilla and coconut
‘Vinos de autor’ ripe fruited, concentrated and structured wines aged in new French oak - low yields and selected parcels often eskewing Consejo Rioja ageing categories and not specifying any age
Although the majority of wines today can be said to sit between these two extremes
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What is a common stylistic trend in red wine making in Rioja today? And how is this achieved?
To highlight the characteristics and quality of the grapes
Achieved in various ways:
- selection of harvest dates (often earlier)
- more gentle extraction
- use of older and larger oak vessels or other vessels such as concrete tanks or amphorae
- shorter maturation periods
French oak is now more common than American oak, although there are still some producers that use only American oak and even more that may use a proportion of American oak in a blend
Producers choose whether or follow the ageing regulations and release their wines labelled within an ageing category or not
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What is the structure of the Rioja wine industry and how does this impact the production of blends?
Many small growers, relatively few wineries and a large number of co-ops
Blending parcels of grapes from various parts of the DOCa has long been a feature of winemaking in Rioja and remains a necessity especially for large producers.
Often, blending of grapes or wine from different zones is desirable to create a certain style or quality.
Garnacha is arguably best suited to Rioja Oriental (suited to warm, dry conditions and low altitude sites) whereas Tempranillo is often of a higher quality from Rioja Alta and Alavesa (early ripening able to ripen in cooler high altitude sites with cool clay soils)
Hence very good and outstanding Tempranillo-Garnacha blends may often be made from grapes from across the DOCa
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What are the two different styles of white Rioja?
Much white Rioja is made in a simple, unoaked style for early drinking.
Handled using protective winemaking techniques, fermented to dryness at cool temperatures in stainless steel and then bottled soon after
Wines made from high yields of Viura can be relatively neutral with medium acidity but grape varieties such as Verdejo, Tempranillo Blanco and Sauvignon Blanc either in a blend or as single varietal wines can provide more flavour intensity and acidity.
These wines tend to be of acceptable to good quality.
Mid-priced and premium white Rioja tends to be made in an Oaked style.
Until relatively recently many of these wines were made in an oxidative style and without much fruit or fresh acidity - struggled to appeal to modern consumers.
However in the past 5-10 years these wines have changed dramatically.
Oak maturation is still used but these wines are now more balanced and fresher.
Viura is the main grape variety often grown at lower yields to give more concentration and body.
More minor grape varieties such as Malvasía and Garnacha Blanca are often blended in giving a greater range of flavour
The wines tend to have medium (+) body and acidity, with subtle citrus fruit and smoke smoky and nutty complexity from oak.
They are generally of good or very good quality. Though outstanding wines exist.
Two wineries release very old bottlings of white wines in the classic Oxidative style namely Castillo Ygay from Marqués de Murrieta and Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva from López de Heredia.
These wines sell for super premium prices and are of outstanding quality, with intense, complex tertiary notes of nut, honey and dried fruit balanced by high acidity
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What are the two wineries in Rioja known for producing super premium white Rioja in the traditional oxidative style?
Two wineries release very old bottlings of white wines in the classic Oxidative style namely Castillo Ygay from Marqués de Murrieta and Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva from López de Heredia.
These wines sell for super premium prices and are of outstanding quality, with intense, complex tertiary notes of nut, honey and dried fruit balanced by high acidity
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What was the impact of Rioja once being a PDO without further geographic delimitations?
Although the sub zones of Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Oriental may have been familiar to wine enthusiasts, these terms could not be mentioned on Rioja wine labels prior to laws changing in 2018.
Single vineyards or villages could also not be named
Growing discontent from a number of producers and producers leaving it threatening to leave the DOCa prompted the Consejo Regulador to review their legislations in 2017 which was published in 2018. Resulting in the creation of three new specifications Vino de Zona, Vino de Municipio and Viñedo Singular (Single vineyard)
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Which renowned Rioja producer left the DOCa at the end of 2015 and why?
Artadi
Discontent with the regulations and frustration that subzones, single vineyards or villages were unable to be named on the label
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Who proposed the creation of a separate classification of Viñedos de Álava prompting Consejo Regulador of Rioja to review legislations?
Basque Asociación de Bodegas de Rioja Alavesa (ABRA) just after renowned producer Artadi left the DOCa at the end of 2015
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What is ‘Vino de Zona’ in Rioja?
A new specification for Rioja wines introduced in 2018.
All grapes must be sourced from the single zone named (Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa or Rioja Oriental)
One exception is that 15% of grapes may come from a neighbouring vineyard that borders the zone mentioned if the producer can provide evidence that they have been sourcing grapes from the vineyard for 10 consecutive years.
Vinification, ageing and bottling of the wine must take place within the zone
Wine labels may indicate the zone of production
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What is ‘Vino de Municipio’ in Rioja?
A new specification of wine in Rioja introduced in 2018.
All grapes must be sourced from the municipality (such as village or group of villages) named.
Similar exception with Vino de Zona, 15% rule allowing grapes sourced from vineyards bordering the municipality if the producer can prove grapes have been sourced from there for 10 consecutive years.
Vinification, ageing and bottling of the wine must take place within the named municipality, meaning a producer must have a winery in that municipality.
This differs from say Burgundy, where the wines of many different communes can be vinified in the same winery.
Wine labels may indicate the municipality of production with the option of the zone of production
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What is Viñedo Singular in Rioja?
A new classification of wine introduced in Rioja in 2018.
Means single vineyard
All grapes must be sourced from particular vineyards or estates that constitute the formal Viñedo Singular
Vinification, ageing, storage and bottling must take place within the same winery.
The producer must have owned the vineyard for a minimum of 10 years, vineyard must be a minimum of 35 years old and the yields must respect specified maximum yields
The vineyard must be hand harvested and treated in a sustainable way with some restrictions on pruning during the growing season
Checks on traceability will be carried out
Wine must be authorised by a tasting panel
Wine labels may indicate the municipal well as the vineyard/estate and the phrase Viñedo Singular
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When does the minimum total ageing time start from with Crianza wines in Rioja?
From October 1st of year of harvest
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Is there a stipulation for minimum time spent in bottle for white and rosé Rioja wines?
No just minimum total ageing time and minimum time spent in barrel
Crianza 24, 6
Reserva 24, 6
Gran Reserva 48, 6
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What is the minimum time spent in bottle required for Rioja red wines?
Crianza - none - although 24 months total ageing (from Oct 1 of year of harvest) 12 months min time in barrel
Reserva - 6 months in bottle - 36 months total ageing - 12 months min in barrel
Gran Reserva - 24 months min in bottle - 60 months min total ageing, 24 months min in barrel
There is no stipulation for minimum time spent in bottle for white and rosé Rioja wines
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What are the key export markets for Rioja wine?
UK, Germany and the USA
Exports made up 37% of sales in 2018
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What is the most popular style of red Rioja domestically in Spain? And how does this differ on export markets?
Crianza is the most popular style of Rioja in Spain, whereas more Reserva and Gran Reserva is sold on export markets
Large quantities of generic wine are sold on both.
Sales of white and rosé wines are growing rapidly, particularly on export markets, albeit from a small base
Key export markets are UK, Germany and the USA
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Where is Rioja growth coming from?
Total sales of Rioja wines are generally slowing increasing
Domestic market is relatively constant
Growth has come from export markets
Exports made up 37% of sales volumes in 2018 and key export markets were UK. Germany and the USA
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What proportion of sales do the top 10 Rioja producers make up?
The top ten producers make up over 40% of sales
80% of producers (287) sell small volumes and constitute just 12% of sales
Much wine is made in cooperatives and sold into merchant business or made under coop brands
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What is the make up of growers in Rioja? How big are the holdings?
Rioja is largely made up of small vineyard plots
Over 50% of area is made up of vineyards of 1Ha or less
Over 75% is made up of 2ha or less
There are a handful of very large producers - top 10 producers make up over
40% of sales
Almost 15,000 grape growers farm 65,000ha of land and over 40% sell to coops
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How does pricing of Rioja wines compare to average Spanish DOs? And prestigious international regions?
The avg bottle price of Rioja wines is substantially higher than the average price of Spanish DO wines in general
But
The average prices for Rioja are much below those for wines from the most prestigious regions in France and Italy
With relatively cheap vineyard land and cheap prices for grapes grown on the warmer, flatter sites there is much good value, inexpensive Rioja
There are many Rioja wines selling at premium prices but few at a super-premium price and there is a relatively small investment market
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What is the key message of the marketing of Rioja wines?
Highlight Rioja’s diversity and value for money
The Consejo Regulador puts strong emphasis on the marketing of Rioja wines using PR and companies in local markets to organise Rioja focused tastings for trade and consumers and ensure media listings
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What are the alternative promotional bodies for Rioja wines? Outside of Consejo Regulador
Consejo Regulador focused on value for money and diversity in PR and marketing efforts
Bodegas Familiares de Rioja - is a group of around 40 small and mid sized producers who promote their wines and campaign on issues that effect small producers such as the minimum stock holding 22,500L for wineries registered to age wines for release as Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva
Rioja ‘n’ Roll - a group of relatively small, first generation producers who are focused on quality wines from particular vineyard sites working in collaboration to promote their wines and offer a different perspective of Rioja
Basque Asociación de Bodegas de Rioja (ABRA) based in Alava are leading a campaign to break away from La Rioja
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What shelters Rioja from the worst of the Atlantic weather?
The Sierra de Cantabria
287
What protects vineyards in Rioja from the warmer weather from the centre of the country?
The Sierra de La Demanda - part of the sistema iberico the mountain range in the north east edge of the meseta
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What is the river that runs through Rioja?
The River Ebro
It runs NW- SE
