There are many different types of grapes used in Spanish wine {Spanskt vin}. The most common varietals are Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Monastrell. These three grapes account for the majority of Spanish red wines. Other important varietals include Albariño, Macabeo, and Parellada.
Get familiar with the finest-quality grapes for Spanish winemaking:
Now that you know a little bit about the grapes used in Spanish wines let’s take a closer look at each one.
Tempranillo:
Tempranillo is the most widely planted grape in Spain. It is a versatile grape that can be used to make a variety of wines, from light and fruity rosés to full-bodied reds. The name “Tempranillo” comes from the Spanish word for “early,” which refers to the grape’s early ripening nature.
Tempranillo wines are typically medium-bodied with flavors of cherry, plum, and tobacco. The best Tempranillo wines come from the Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions. Some of the most famous Tempranillo wines include Reserva and Gran Reserva wines from Rioja, as well as Vega Sicilia Único.
Garnacha:
Garnacha is another versatile grape that can be used for both red and pink wines. The name “Garnacha” comes from the Spanish word for “pomegranate,” which is one of the few fruits that share a similar color to the grape.
Garnacha wines are typically fruity and light-bodied, with flavors of strawberry and raspberry. The best Garnacha wines come from the Navarra, Aragón, and Catalonia regions. Some of the most famous Garnacha wines include Clos de los Siete and Bodegas Gómez Cruzado Reserva.
Monastrell:
Monastrell is a robust grape that is typically used for hearty red wines. The name “Monastrell” comes from the Spanish word for “monastery”, as the grape was first cultivated by monks in the Alicante region.
Monastrell wines are typically full-bodied with flavors of blackberry, plum, and chocolate. The best Monastrell wines come from the Jumilla and Yecla regions. Some of the most famous Monastrell wines include Bodegas Juan Gil and Finca Antigua Clásico.
Albariño:
Albariño is the most important grape for white wines in Spain. These wines are typically light and refreshing, with hints of citrus fruit. The name “Albariño” comes from the Spanish word for “white,” which refers to the grape’s pale color.
Albariño wines are typically dry with flavors of lemon, lime, and grapefruit. The best Albariño wines come from the Rías Baixas region. Some of the most famous Albariño wines include Bodegas Terras Gauda O Rosal and Martin Códax.
How to ensure the quality of Spanish wine:
The best Spanish wines are made with the finest quality grapes.
- To ensure that you are getting a high-quality wine, look for wines that have been made with Tempranillo, Garnacha, or Monastrell grapes.
- It is also important to look for Spanish wines that have been aged for a minimum of two years. This aging process allows the wine to develop complex flavors and aromas.
- Finally, make sure to try a variety of Spanish wines in order to find the ones that you like the best. There is a wide range of Spanish wines available, so you are sure to find ones that suit your taste. Experiment with different types of wines and find the ones that you enjoy the most.
Conclusion:
Now that you know a little bit about the grapes used in Spanish wines, you can start exploring all the different types of wines that Spain has to offer!
