Tempranillo Information
Pronunciation: temp-rah-nee-oh
Tempranillo is Spain’s most iconic grape varietal, famously grown in the region of Rioja. This grape has been present in Europe for millenia, and was cultivated by settlers in the Phoenican era. Today, Tempranillo is a household name and appreciated all over the world.
The grape itself has a dark, relatively thick skin that lends to its overall resilience and ability to thrive in temperature variable regions. Wines made from this grape are commonly medium deep red in color and medium to full in body. The ripening of Tempranillo on the vine occurs earlier in the harvest season than many other grapes; the origin of the name comes from the Spanish word temprano which translates to “early.”
Synonyms: Tinta Roriz, Tinta de Toro, Cencibel, Ull de Llebre, Tinto Fino, Tinta del Pais, Aragonez.
Tempranillo Characteristics
Winemakers often age Tempranillo in oak barrels for many years, producing a bold, medium-full bodied and robust wine that can fetch a pretty penny. Although most common in Spain, this varietal can be found in Portugal as well, where it is used for Port wine and table red blends.
Color: Medium red. Changes from ruby to garnet with age.
Nose: Black fruit, red fruit, black pepper, dried herbs.
Palette: Well balanced, smooth with lingering tannin.
Notable Wines Made From Tempranillo: Rioja blends and Port are well the most famous uses of Tempranillo.
Tempranillo Tasting Notes
Primary Notes – black cherry, plum, strawberry jam, fig, black pepper
Secondary Notes – gravel, balsamic, minerals
Tertiary Notes – dill, tobacco, cedar plank
Body – Medium to Full Bodied
Finish – Medium high acidity, medium tannin
Typical ABV% – 12.5-15%
Tempranillo Styles
Tempranillo is extremely popular in Spain and Portugal, and is one of the most commonly planted grapes in the world. It has also gained notable popularity in other parts of Europe and in the United States. Often referred to as “the noble grape of Spain”, Tempranillo has decidedly earned its reputation of greatness in the Old World. Tempranillo has a rich history, remarkable versatility and remains a dominant force in the global wine industry.
Portugal: Douro Valley; Here, Tempranillo is primarily used for fortified dessert wine (Port). Dão, Alentejo; Tempranillo is commonly blended with Touriga Nacional for table red wine, often tasting of berry and spice.
Spain: Rioja; Tempranillo is usually the predominant grape in blends of Rioja. Grenache and Carignan are also present in smaller amounts. Wine is traditionally aged in oak, often for many years. Ribera del Duero; Tempranillo from this region has a tendency to be very rich, slightly less acidic and more robust. Many wines from this region are single varietal, 100% Tempranillo. Like Rioja, the wine is aged in oak barrels and classified accordingly. Toro; known as Tinta de Toro in this region.
United States: Tempranillo enjoys diurnal temperature variation, and thrives in higher altitude areas. Some parts of California and Washington can offer that climate, and grow Tempranillo for rose, red blends, and occasionally single varietals.
Tempranillo Classifications
Spain: DO: Ribera del Duero, Toro
DOCa: Rioja
“Roble/Tinto/Joven” – No significant aging
“Crianza” – aged one year in oak, one year in bottle
“Reserva” – aged one year in oak, two in bottle
“Gran Reserva” – aged two years in oak, three in bottle
Portugal: DOC: Douro, Dão, Alentejo, Lisboa
When To Drink Tempranillo
Tempranillo is a medium-full bodied wine, and pairs well with hearty, earthy dishes. The acidity of the wine balances out the fattiness of foods like grilled lamb or pork chops; it also holds up nicely with other acidic elements like tomato based sauces. Additionally, Tempranillo pairs well with rich cheeses, cured meats and roasted vegetables, making it a great option for a cheese or charcuterie board in the evening.
Tempranillo Serving Temperature – 55-60 ºF (12-16 ºC)
Best Years To Drink Tempranillo
Tempranillo needs to be aged at least 12 months. However, it can be aged 20+ years, depending on vintage and designation. The younger the wine is, it will typically be more fruit forward and have stronger tannins. The longer the wine is aged, it will be softer and have a more complex flavor profile.
Tempranillo Average Prices
Although this grape has gained notoriety for its exceptional ability to age, Tempranillo can also be sold for lower price points in younger, fresher styles. The Tempranillo grape can also produce an expressive, bold and decadent rosé wine. The average price of a bottle of Tempranillo is around $10-20. However, you can find bottles over $300 around the world.
Tempranillo Nutrition Facts
A 6oz pour of Tempranillo is roughly 165-195 calories, and contains 3.5-4.5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fun Facts About Tempranillo
Tempranillo is the third most planted grape in the world with 570,800 acres planted. About 80% of these vines are located in Spain. (Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation, 2018)
The leaves on a bunch of Tempranillo grapes are distinctly serrated, making it easy to spot in a vineyard.
