The Legendary Grape of Spain
Where It's Grown
Tempranillo is grown primarily in Spain, although you will also find it in Portugal where the grape is used in the production of both table wines and port, in the warmer parts of California and Washington state, Argentina in Mendoza, and more germane to our conversation, Texas. According to Jancis Robinson's Wine Grapes, there are "more than thirty wineries drawing fruit from 75 acres vineyard...The variety's ability to withstand hot summers and cold winters is appreciated here."
Worldwide, there are approximately 570,000 acres under vine with the majority, about 500,000 in Spain.
Characteristics
Tempranillo is a thick-skinned red grape and as such, the wines it produces are dark in color and long lasting due to the high tannin content. Temprano translates to early from Spanish most likely attributed to the grapes tendency to bud and ripen early. A short growing season allows producers in harsher climates such as Rioja in its native Spain or Texas to harvest earlier than other varietals.
Synonyms
Tempranillo might have more synonyms than any other wine grape.
In Spain, Tempranillo goes by Ull de Llebre in Penedès, Cencibel in Valdepeñas, Tinto Fino in Ribera del Duero, as well as Tinta Madrid, Tinta del Pais, and Tinta de Toro. In Portugal, it grows under the names of Aragonez and Tinta Roriz.
In The Glass
Tempranillo produces wines that are relatively low in alcohol, strong in tannins, and low to medium acidity. In regards to flavors, look for cherry, strawberry, raspberry, dried fig, cedar, tobacco leaves, and dill. Aged Tempranillo exhibits tertiary aromas such as vanilla (when aged in oak barrels), dried tea, darker fruits, licorice, and leather.
Producers of Note
La Rioja Alta - Spain
Quinta do Crasto - Portugal
Cayuse Vineyards - Washington State
Inwood Estate Vineyards - Texas
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