Spain Flashcards
What are the three climates of Spain?
- North & Northwest Spain = Moderate maritime climate.
- Eastern Spain = Warm mediterranean climate. Often moderated by the ocean or altitude.
- Central Spain (Meseta Central) = Hot continental climate. Cooling effects of high altitude in some sites.
What are the primary black varieties?
Local varieties:
- Tempranillo
- Garnacha Tinto/Fino/Pais
- Monastrell
- Graciano
- Carinena/Mazuelo/Carignan
International varieties:
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
What are the primary white varieties?
Local varieties:
- Verdejo
- Albarino
- Airen
- Viura (Macabeo)
International varieties:
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
What are the official ageing categories and their ageing requirements for red wines of Spain?
Joven - min. 0 in barrel - min. 0 total
Crianza - min. 6 in barrel - min. 24 total
Reserva - min. 12 in barrel - min. 36 total
Gran Reserva - min. 18 in barrel - min. 60 total
* Some regions have extended ageing criterias, such as Rioja.
What are the primary challenges of viticulture in Spain and how can it be managed?
Heat and drought.
Low density, bush-trained vines.
Increases available water and provides shade.
What are the official ageing categories and their ageing requirements for white/rose wines?
Joven - min. 0 in barrel - min. 0 total
Crianza - min. 6 in barrel - min. 18 total
Reserva - min. 6 in barrel - min. 24 total
Gran Reserva - min. 6 in barrel - min. 48 total
Name the mountain ridge just north of Leon.
Cordillera Cantabria
Name three regions of the Douro Valley.
From East to South
- Ribera Del Douro
- Rueda (White)
- Toro
Describe Bierzo
- Location
- Primary grape variety
- Type of wine
- Located between Galicia and Meseta Central
- Primarily red wines based on Mencia.
- Elegant reds, high acidity and red fruit flavours.
- Old vines on the steep slopes produce best wines.
- Both oaked and un-oaked wines.
Name the three sub-regions of Rioja.
- Rioja Alta
- Rioja Alavesa
- Rioja Baja
Name the regions of the Upper Ebro.
- Rioja
- Navarra
- Carinena
- Catalayud
Name the regions of the Catalunya.
- Priorat
- Penedés