Spain- Rioja Flashcards
What is Rioja named after?
The River Oja, a tributary of the Ebro River.
In which autonomous region is Rioja primarily located?
La Rioja.
What are the sub-zones of Rioja?
- Rioja Alavesa
- Rioja Alta
- Rioja Oriental
What is the full name of the classification DOCa?
Denominación de Origen Calificada.
When did Rioja first receive DO status?
In 1925.
How many grape growers and wineries are in Rioja as of 2025?
About 15,000 grape growers and 576 wineries.
Who first cultivated wine in Rioja?
The Romans.
What climate does the Cantabrian Mountains create for Rioja?
A continental climate.
What is the average temperature in Rioja?
About 11°C (51°F).
What type of soils are found in Rioja Alta?
Clay ferrous and alluvial soils.
What is the main grape variety planted in Rioja Alavesa?
Tempranillo.
What is the elevation range of Rioja Alavesa?
400 m to 800 m
As high as 900 m
What is the main center of wine trade in Rioja Alta?
Haro.
What is the minimum potential alcohol for red wines in Rioja Oriental?
12%.
What are the sweetness levels for Vino Espumoso de Calidad?
- Brut Nature: maximum 3 g/l
- Extra Brut: maximum 6 g/l
- Brut: maximum 12 g/l
What is the minimum aging requirement for Vino Espumoso de Calidad Gran Añada?
36 months on the lees.
What percentage of permitted red varieties must be in Rosé wines?
At least 25%.
What is the dominant grape variety in Rioja?
Tempranillo.
What is the aging requirement for Crianza Tinto?
2 years, with 1 year in oak.
What is the definition of Vinos de Zona?
85% of the grapes must come from a single Zone, i.e., Alta, Alavesa, Oriental
What is required for a wine to be classified as Viñedo Singular?
Vines must be at least 35 years old and manually harvested.
What is the primary soil type in Rioja Alavesa?
Calcareous clay.
True or False: Rioja Oriental has the highest elevation among the sub-regions.
False.
What grape variety is known as Maturana Tinta in Rioja?
Trousseau.
Aging requirement for Gran Reserva Tinto in Rioja?
5 years, with 2 years in oak and 2 years in bottle.
Fill in the blank: Rioja Rosé wines must have a minimum potential alcohol of ______ .
10.5% (11% for Reserva and Gran Reserva)
What is the significance of the year 2017 for Rioja wines?
Introduction of Vino Espumoso de Calidad.
