Tempranillo

Tempranillo is a thick-skinned, black grape that is widely planted throughout the Iberian Peninsula.  It is the driving force behind red wines from the Ribera del Duero, La Rioja, and other winemaking regions throughout Spain.  In the Ribera del Duero, Tempranillo is known as Tinto Fino or Tinto del Pais, and Cencibel in other parts of Spain. 

Tempranillo means “little early one” because of the grape’s propensity for ripening early. Wines made from Tempranillo range in a variety of styles depending on oak barrel aging. Many upstart, younger producers are utilizing different vessels to vinify for contrast. Wines range from young and fruity to complex, earthy, and age-worthy.  Common flavors include cherry, plum, dried fig, tobacco, and leather.