- Wine Color/Type
- Top Occasions
- Unique Wines
- Surprise Me!
Tempranillo grapes tend to be deep-coloured with a thick skin, making them mostly resistant to botrytis bunch rot. They have a moderate sugar content and low to moderate acidity. On the nose, Tempranillo wines often present aromas of blackberry, cherry, plum, leather, tobacco, and spice. On the palate, they tend to be medium-bodied with flavours of red and black fruits, herbs, tobacco, earth, and spice.
Tempranillo is widely planted in Spain, where it is also known as Tinto Fino, as well as in Portugal, where it is known as Tinta Roriz. It is also grown in other parts of Europe, South America and Australia. Tempranillo is a hardy grape variety that is relatively easy to grow and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. Yields range from medium to high according to the site and soil type. It is often blended with other varieties, such as Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon and is used in a variety of styles, from light and fruity to full-bodied and tannic. In Spain, Tempranillo is typically blended with other varieties to produce Rioja, Ribera del Duero and other regional styles. In Portugal, it is blended with Touriga Nacional to produce Port and Douro wines. In the New World, Tempranillo is often vinified on its own and can produce wines with intense fruit flavours and well-integrated oak. Tempranillo wines pair well with a variety of foods, including grilled meats, stews, and cheeses. They also pair well with tomato-based dishes, as the tannins and acidity can help to cut through the richness of the sauce.