Spanish Wines
Regions
Spanish wines are mineral forward, light, and easy drinking.
Spain’s wineries span multiple distinct geographies: Rioja (clay/gravel classicism), Ribera del Duero (high-altitude intensity), Priorat (steep, llicorella slate soils), Rías Baixas (maritime Atlantic whites), Rueda, and the fortified Sherry triangle (Jerez, El Puerto, Sanlúcar).
Varietals
Napa Valley is known for Bordeaux varietals – Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah
Reds:
Tempranillo: Spain’s emblematic red, expressive of red plum, dried herbs, and earth—with significant oak influence in Reserva and Gran Reserva.
Garnacha: Juicy and spicy, often used both as single-varietal and blended wine.
Whites:
Albariño: Crisp and saline white from Galicia with floral and stone fruit aromas.
Cava blends: Traditional-method sparkling wines with Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada grapes.
History
While wine in Spain dates to Phoenician and Roman times, modern revitalization took form in the late 20th century. Aging categories (Joven to Gran Reserva) standardized quality. With a focus on blending tradition and innovation, Spain is now celebrated for expressive reds, refined bubbles, and bold regional whites.