Spain - North Central Flashcards
When was Rioja DOCa Status?
1991
How long has Rioja been a viable wine producing area?
Over 2000 years
What river is Rioja named after?
The Oja, a smaller tributary of the Ebro
What is the name of the main river that flows through Rioja?
The Ebro
Name the subzones of Rioja
Rioja Alta
Rioja Alavesa
Rioja Oriental
What is Vino Espumoso de Calidad?
a designation for traditional method sparkling wines in Rioja added in 2018
What are the requirements for Vino Espumoso Calidad?
- Grapes must be hand harvested
- Entire wine making process must take place at the same facility
- Brut Nature, Brut and Extra Brut styles are allowed
- 15 months Lees ageing
What are the lees ageing requirements for Vino Espumoso Calidad Reserve?
24 months
What are the lees ageing requirements for Vino Espumoso Calidad Gran Reserve?
36 months
What are the ageing requirements for White/Rose Rioja Crianza?
Minimum 18 mo ageing with a minimum 6 months in oak (remainder may be in bottle oak or stainless steel)
What are the ageing requirements for White/Rose Rioja Reserva?
Minimum 2 years ageing with a minimum 6 months in oak (remainder must be in bottle or oak)
What are the ageing requirements for White/Rose Rioja Gran Reserva?
Minimum 4 years ageing including at least 6 months in oak (remainder must be in bottle or oak)
What are the ageing requirements for red Rioja Crianza?
Minimum 2 years ageing with at least 1 year in Oak
What are the minimum ageing requirements for Red Rioja Reserva?
Minimum 3 years ageing with at least 1 year in oak and 6 months in bottle
What are the minimum ageing requirements for Red Rioja Gran Reserva?
Minimum 5 years ageing with a minimum 2 years in oak and minimum 2 years in bottle
Name the 4 principal white grapes of Rioja?
Viura
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Verdejo
How much of the blend must the primary white grapes make up in Rioja?
50% of the blend
Name the 5 authorised red grapes of Rioja
Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo, Graciano, Maturana Tinta