Many wine lovers enjoy a classic Tempranillo, but what makes it so special? With so many different types of red wine to choose from, even the most seasoned wine connoisseurs can start to get them mixed up.
If you’re interested in learning what Tempranillo wine is and how to enjoy it, you’ve come to the right place. At The Wine Cellar Group, we have years of experience carefully crafting our wine collection to accommodate a variety of different flavor palates and preferences.
This helpful guide will go over what Tempranillo wine is, where it’s made, its flavor profiles, serving and pairing tips, and recommendations for trying different types of Tempranillo.
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What Is Tempranillo?
Tempranillo is a type of red wine derived from the specialized Tempranillo grape variety, which is native to Spain. The wine gets its name from the Spanish word “temprano,” meaning “early,” because the grapes that are used ripen earlier than other varieties. Tempranillo is also often known by other names (over 70 different ones!), depending on the region. For example, in Portugal, it’s known as Tinta Roriz and Aragonéz.
Tempranillo grapes became a popular choice for wine because of their versatility. Depending on the winemaking and aging processes, they can be used to make both young and aged wines, each with its own unique flavor profile.
Tempranillo wine has a rich, red color and is a medium to full-bodied wine that dances across the palate with a hint of dryness and acidity. It’s often compared to Cabernet Sauvignons or Sangioveses for their similar flavor profile and structure.
Where Is Tempranillo Wine Made?
Tempranillo wine is most commonly made in Spain; however, you can find bottles made in other regions as well, including Portugal and even Australia.
Spain
The Tempranillo grape is the most planted grape in all of Spain, making up about 80% of its global production. They primarily come from the Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Toro regions, and they’ve been nicknamed the heartland of Tempranillo.
The aging process for these wines begins in oak barrels for the first year or so before being finished in standard glass bottles. Spain regulations require winemakers to age these wines to specific vintage marks before they can be shipped and sold. For Tempranillo wines, the yearly designations are labeled:
- Joven: No Aging
- Crianza: Aged 2 Years
- Reserva: Aged 3 years
- Gran Reserva: Aged 5 to 7 Years
Portugal
In Portugal, Tempranillo is known as “Tinta Roriz” and is produced in the Douro Valley, located in the northern region. This valley primarily produces Port wine blends that combine Tinta Roriz with other varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca, and Tinta Cão.
This unique blend creates a rich and vibrant color with high tannin levels and a delectable black fruit flavor profile.
New World Regions
While Spain and Portugal are the Tempranillo powerhouses, there are a handful of other regions that have these plants. If you look hard enough, you may be able to find bottles of this nectar made in California, Oregon, Texas, Argentina, and Australia.
The reason most production happens in Spain and Portugal is because of the climate and other growing conditions. The vineyards in these regions are at a higher elevation with year-round sunshine and protection from the elements, allowing the grapes to fully grow and thrive.
What Does Tempranillo Wine Taste Like?
Traditional Tempranillos have rich, fruity notes of cherry and plum paired with denser hints of tomato leaf, tobacco, leather, and even vanilla. These flavors really thrive if the wine is aged in an oak barrel rather than a glass bottle, as the liquid absorbs flavor components from the oak as it sits.
The classic Tempranillo wine taste can vary depending on the age of the bottle. The longer the drink is aged, the more time it has to develop its flavor. The high tannin levels soften over time, deepening the flavor and adding unique aromas.
Tempranillo Food Pairing & Serving Tips
Adding a small snack to your wine-sipping experience or pairing your evening glass with a tasty meal can elevate the natural flavors of the drink. A good Tempranillo wine pairing brings out the wine’s flavors while adding something unique.
Our food recommendations depend on the age of the bottle you choose. The lighter, fruitier flavor of a younger Tempranillo pairs wonderfully with paellas, tacos, and tomato-based pasta dishes. The richer notes of an aged bottle go better with rich dishes that have bold flavors. Think of dishes like lamb, steak, and spiced curry.
To truly bring out the full flavors of this exquisite beverage, the serving temperature makes all the difference. Be sure to serve your Tempranillo slightly chilled at around 60℉ to 65℉.
Our Top Tempranillo Wine Picks
At Wine Cellar Group, we’ve got an extensive Tempranillo Collection that will have even the pickiest wine connoisseur finding the perfect bottle for their next event. Here are some personally-picked Tempranillo bottles that will take any event to the next level.
Organic Tempranillo
Organic Tempranillos are sustainably grown with minimal human intervention, creating an all-natural flavor profile. Our Palacio Del Conde Grand Seleccion Tempranillo offers a gentle edge of vanilla that pairs wonderfully with tapas or a strong cheese.
Smooth Tempranillo
A rich, smooth Tempranillo is easy to drink, making it the perfect sip for wine enthusiasts who are dipping their toes into the world of reds. Try our Altos de la Guardia Tempranillo for a silky sip that offers gentle notes of sweet blackberry and strawberry.
Oak-Aged Tempranillo
Aging a Tempranillo in an oak barrel improves the complexity of the drink and creates a one-of-a-kind experience. The Pagos de Tahola Rioja Reserva spends a year in oak barrels before aging for an additional 6+ years in glass bottles, resulting in a smooth, red-berry flavor with accents of vanilla oak and gentle spice.
Award-Winning Tempranillo
These high-end bottles have garnered global recognition through wine accolades for their intricate flavors and a divine sipping experience. Our Barón de Barbón Oak Aged Rioja reached international fame in 2001 with its exquisite strawberry and spiced vanilla notes.
Tempranillo Wine FAQ
Is Tempranillo a dry wine?
The flavor of a Tempranillo depends on the types of grapes used and the aging process. In general, they tend to lean on the drier side with a medium acidity.
What is Tempranillo wine similar to?
If you enjoy sipping on a Cabernet Sauvignon or Sangiovese, then you may enjoy trying out a Tempranillo.
Should I age Tempranillo wine or drink it young?
Aging a Tempranillo depends on the drink’s style and your personal palate and wine preferences. Younger bottles often have a fresh, fruity flavor profile, while bottles aged around 10 years offer more savory notes.
Does Tempranillo have a lot of tannins?
Tempranillos have medium to high levels of tannins, which make them a great option for aging. As the drink matures, the flavors become more complex and delectable.
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