Are You Ready to Take the Plunge?
Are you thinking of expanding your palate and making the jump into trying some Spanish wine? Have you heard about Rioja and Ribera del Duero and wondered what makes them so special? It can be daunting to take the plunge into the world of Spanish wines, but fear not - this article is here to give you the basics for Spanish wines for dummies!
The Variety of Spanish Wine Regions
Spain is the third largest wine producer in the world and has over 60 appellations, making it home to a dizzying array of wines from light and fruity whites to robust and tannic reds. With a large variety of wine regions, Spanish wines can come from many climates and different grape varieties, allowing for a great amount of diversity. Some of the most famous regions include La Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Rías Baixas, Priorat, and Penedes, as well as many others.
A map of the wine regions of Spain.
Grape Varieties and Labels
Knowing the grape varieties used to make Spanish wines is one of the biggest steps in navigating the world of Spanish wines. Common red grape varieties used in Spanish wines include Tempranillo, Garnacha, Monastrell, Carignan, and Graciano, while white grape varieties include Verdejo, Albariño, Airén, and Viura. It is also important to know the labeling system of Spanish wines. Many regions used the Denominacion de Origen (DO) system, which is regulated by the regional government. This indicates that the wine is made in a certain way with grapes from the designated region. There is also the Denominacion de Orgine Calificada (DOCa) for wines from La Rioja and Priorat, as well as the Vinos de Calidad con Indicación Geografica (VCIG) for table wines.
Points of View on Spanish Wines
Spanish wines have been gaining a lot of recognition in recent years, with many obtaining high scores in wine competitions and recognition from famous wine critics. Wine experts such as Robert Parker and Jancis Robinson have praised the quality of Spanish wines and have helped to elevate the status of Spanish wines in the international market. The renaissance of Spanish wine has been ongoing for many years, and there are now many Spanish wineries producing world-class wines. Spanish wines can be enjoyed with a variety of foods, such as tapas, seafood, and stews.
Spanish Wines For Dummies - Easy Steps to Start Enjoying
Now that you have a basic understanding of Spanish wines, it’s time to start exploring and find which wines you enjoy the most. Here are a few easy steps to get you started:
- Choose a region and try the wines from this region first.
- Find a reputable wine merchant or online store to purchase the wines.
- Research the different grape varieties and learn how they can affect the taste of the wine.
- Find a good wine guide or website to help you understand the labeling system.
- Read reviews and ratings of different wines to get an idea of which ones you should try.
- Finally, open a bottle and enjoy!
By following these simple steps, you can start your journey into the world of Spanish wine. With so many different regions and grape varieties to explore, you can be sure to find something to your taste. So, don’t be afraid to take the plunge into Spanish wines for dummies – you won’t regret it!
Closing Message For Blog Visitors
Exploring Spanish wines can be a great way to discover new flavors and expand your palate. With so many different regions and grape varieties, there is something for everyone! So don’t be afraid to take the plunge – you won’t regret it!