The short version
What is Tempranillo?
Tempranillo ripens relatively early—its name comes from temprano, Spanish for early. It anchors Rioja and Ribera del Duero, where time in oak and bottle can be as important to style as the fruit itself.
Cherry, plum, dried fig, leather, dill, and vanilla can appear. Young wines are juicy and direct; matured examples become silky, savory, and layered without necessarily becoming heavy.
In the glass
Flavors to look for
01Cherry
02Plum
03Dried fig
04Leather
05Vanilla
At the table
Food pairings that work
Match the wine’s weight to the dish, then let acidity refresh the palate and savory flavors echo one another.
Roast lambTapasManchegoGrilled vegetables
Where it grows
Regions to know
- Rioja, Spain
- Ribera del Duero, Spain
- Toro, Spain
- Douro, Portugal