Rioja is Spain’s benchmark red wine region, shaped by climate, elevation, soil, and time. 📍 Location - Northern Spain - Protected by the Sierra Cantabria mountains - Influenced by both Atlantic and Mediterranean climates 🍇 The Star: Tempranillo - Medium to full body - Red cherry, plum, dried fig - Leather, tobacco, dill, spice with age - Naturally moderate acidity + structured tannin Supporting cast: - Garnacha (body + warmth) - Graciano (acidity + backbone) - Mazuelo (color + tannin) ⏳ Aging Is the Culture Rioja codified barrel aging terms that changed Spanish wine forever: - Crianza - Reserva - Gran Reserva American oak became a signature — delivering coconut, vanilla, and sweet spice notes that are instantly recognizable. 🌎 Three Subregions. Three Personalities. - Rioja Alta → structure, elegance, longevity - Rioja Alavesa → aromatics, freshness, lift - Rioja Oriental → warmth, ripeness, power 🎯 Learn more at WineFolly.com