Tempranillo

Tempranillo is a red wine grape variety native to Spain, widely recognized for its role in producing some of the country’s most famous wines, particularly Rioja. The name “Tempranillo” is derived from the Spanish word “temprano,” meaning “early,” which refers to the grape’s tendency to ripen earlier than many other red varieties. Tempranillo grapes are characterized by their thick skins, which contribute to the wine’s rich color and tannins. The wines made from Tempranillo are often noted for their complex flavors, which can include notes of cherry, plum, tomato, and leather, along with a distinct earthy quality. Tempranillo can be blended with other grape varieties or crafted as a varietal wine, and it is also versatile in aging, often matured in oak barrels to enhance its flavor profile. This grape is now cultivated in various wine regions around the world but remains most closely associated with Spanish viticulture.