Tempranillo stands as a cornerstone of Spanish winemaking, celebrated for its rich heritage, versatility, and deep connection to the nation’s diverse regions. Known by names like Tinto Fino, Tinta del País, and Tinta de Toro, this iconic varietal mirrors the unique nuances of its terroir. Its adaptability and exceptional quality have solidified its place as a favorite among winemakers and connoisseurs alike. In this exploration of Tempranillo’s global reach and defining characteristics, the Sommeliers Choice Awards uncovers why this timeless grape continues to captivate wine enthusiasts and define the essence of Spain’s viticultural legacy.

Tempranillo’s Global Reach

While Spain accounts for a staggering 87% of the world’s Tempranillo production, this adaptable grape has earned a following far beyond its homeland. From Argentina to the United States and even New Zealand, Tempranillo has firmly established itself as a global favorite. As the world’s third most-planted grape variety, it shares the spotlight with heavyweights like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, captivating winemakers and consumers alike.

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Tempranillo Wines: Distinct Flavors and Characteristics

Tempranillo wines are celebrated for their vivid hues and balanced structure. The grape’s thick skins contribute to its deep, rich colors, while its moderate tannins and acidity create an approachable yet complex wine. Depending on the age and climate of the vineyard, Tempranillo offers a spectrum of aromas—from fresh red fruits like strawberries and cherries to mature notes of prunes, leather, and smoke.

These wines are typically medium- to full-bodied, boasting a velvety texture that is often enhanced by oak aging. Cooler regions like Rioja yield wines with elegance and refined acidity, while warmer areas like Ribera del Duero produce robust, tannic wines with concentrated fruit flavors. In regions with significant temperature swings, Tempranillo achieves a harmonious balance of fruit and acidity, offering excellent aging potential.

Image: Red Wine

Key Tempranillo-Producing Regions in Spain

Rioja

Rioja, Spain’s most renowned wine region, is synonymous with Tempranillo. Its diverse terroirs—from the limestone-rich soils of Rioja Alavesa to the clay-heavy Rioja Alta—produce wines that capture the grape’s versatility. Traditional aging techniques, particularly the use of American oak, imbue these wines with distinctive vanilla and coconut flavors, enhancing their smooth texture and aging potential.

Ribera del Duero

Nestled along the Duero River, Ribera del Duero has emerged as a rival to Rioja in producing world-class Tempranillo wines. High-altitude vineyards and dramatic temperature shifts create wines with bold dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and remarkable aging capacity. This region showcases Tempranillo’s ability to deliver intensity and elegance in equal measure.

Toro

In northwest Spain, the Toro region is renowned for its powerful expressions of Tempranillo, locally known as Tinta de Toro. The hot, arid climate and iron-rich soils yield robust, full-bodied wines with concentrated dark fruit notes, high alcohol content, and structured tannins. These characteristics make Toro wines ideal for aging and prized among collectors.

Tempranillo’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to adapt to diverse climates and winemaking styles while delivering wines that embody the richness of Spanish tradition. Whether enjoyed as a single varietal or in blends, Tempranillo continues to captivate palates worldwide, cementing its status as Spain’s most iconic grape.

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The best Tempranillo wines from the 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards

2021 Cellar Reserve Tempranillo

The 2021 Cellar Reserve Tempranillo from Llano Estacado Winery is a masterful expression of this bold and distinctive varietal. Crafted with 93% Tempranillo and 7% Soazão, this vintage entices with a bouquet of dark cherry, ripe plum, and tobacco, underscored by hints of leather and spice. On the palate, it unfolds with a well-rounded structure, featuring refined tannins and balanced acidity that culminates in a smooth, lingering finish. This wine reflects Llano Estacado’s dedication to crafting complex and elegant wines, perfect for any discerning enthusiast.

Image: 2021 Cellar Reserve Tempranillo

Campo Viejo Tempranillo

Campo Viejo Tempranillo showcases the true essence of Spain’s iconic varietal, crafted with 100% premium Tempranillo. The wine bursts with vibrant black plum and berry fruits, complemented by the earthy, cacao complexity reminiscent of Merlot. Hints of violet, lavender, vanilla, cedar, and spice lift the aromatic profile, adding depth. Full-bodied and powerful, it offers a plush richness balanced by gentle acidity and fine, ripe tannins, ensuring a seamless presence from start to finish. On the palate, it’s soft, fresh, and perfumed, with a long, memorable finish of red fruit, vanilla, and cocoa.

Moonlit Sky Tempranillo

The Moonlit Sky Tempranillo by Compris Vineyard offers a rare and captivating expression of this varietal in the Willamette Valley, where Tempranillo plantings are a true rarity. This elegant wine opens with earthy aromas of dusty cranberry, tart cherry, and whispers of vanilla and nutmeg, creating an alluring depth. On the palate, it’s lean and vibrant, with a bright tartness and a delicate yet structured texture that glides effortlessly. The finish lingers with unexpected length, balancing dark intensity with an airy lightness—a poetic tribute to its name. A truly unique take on Tempranillo.

Image: Moonlit Sky Tempranillo

URBINA Breeding

The Urbina Breeding Tempranillo is a masterful expression of aged elegance and complexity. Its cherry-ruby hue offers a preview of the depth within. The nose is rich with the tertiary nuances of American oak—coconut, vanilla, and white pepper—harmonizing with red cherry, ripe fruit, and lactic undertones. Aromas of musk, thyme, dill, orange peel, and undergrowth add layers of intrigue. On the palate, it mirrors its aromatic profile with warm blackcurrant, black fruit, and hints of incense and musk, balanced by refreshing acidity and herbal notes like fennel and thyme. A wine of impressive structure, persistence, and inviting charm.

Arínzano Tempranillo Estate

The Hacienda de Arinzano Tempranillo is a refined blend of 85% Tempranillo, 10% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, showcasing the craftsmanship of this esteemed winery. Its garnet-red hue with bluish highlights hints at the vibrant character within. The bouquet brims with fresh cherries, strawberries, pastry cream, and subtle balsamic notes, offering an inviting complexity. On the palate, it delivers an intense yet balanced expression with silky tannins and a persistent, elegant finish. Aged for 14 months in French oak (40% new), this wine is crafted for a slow evolution, with optimal enjoyment between 3 and 6 years.

Image: Arínzano Tempranillo Estate

In conclusion, Tempranillo’s timeless appeal and adaptability continue to shine through, captivating wine enthusiasts and collectors across the globe. From its rich Spanish roots to its growing international presence, this versatile varietal consistently delivers wines of remarkable depth, complexity, and elegance. Whether from renowned regions like Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Toro, or emerging areas like the Willamette Valley, Tempranillo offers an exciting spectrum of expressions. As seen in the award-winning wines from the 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards, Tempranillo remains a staple for those seeking exceptional, balanced, and unforgettable wines.

Header image by Fernando Garcia Esteban / Getty Images

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