Tempranillo and cost-effective wines

Tempranillo is a red grape variety that is predominantly grown in Spain, but is also cultivated in other countries such as Portugal, Argentina, and the United States. This grape is widely regarded as one of the most important red wine varieties in Spain and is responsible for producing some of the country's most famous wines, including Rioja and Ribera del Duero.

 

Tempranillo is known for its thick skin and small berries, which contribute to its high tannin content and full-bodied structure. The grape is also known for its early ripening, hence its name "temprano," which means "early" in Spanish.

 

In terms of flavor profile, Tempranillo wines are known for their bold fruit flavors and earthy undertones. Depending on the climate and soil conditions in which the grapes are grown, Tempranillo wines can exhibit a wide range of flavors, from bright red fruit notes like cherry and strawberry, to darker fruit notes like blackberry and plum. Additionally, Tempranillo wines may display spicy notes of tobacco, leather, and vanilla, which come from the oak barrels often used in the aging process.

 

Here are 5 delicious Tempranillo wines that you can enjoy without breaking the bank

• Campo Viejo Rioja Tempranillo - This wine hails from the famous Rioja region in Spain and is a great example of a classic Tempranillo. It boasts rich fruit flavors of cherry and blackberry, with notes of vanilla and spice. At around $12 a bottle, it's an affordable option that doesn't skimp on quality.

• El Coto Rioja Crianza - Another fantastic Tempranillo from the Rioja region, this wine is aged for a minimum of one year in oak barrels before release. The result is a wine with a silky texture and complex flavor profile, featuring notes of red fruit, vanilla, and a hint of smokiness. It's priced at around $14 per bottle.

• Conde de Valdemar Crianza - This wine is made from 90% Tempranillo grapes and 10% Mazuelo grapes, giving it a unique flavor profile with a good balance of fruit and earthy notes. It's aged for 18 months in oak barrels before release, adding complexity and depth to the wine. At around $16 per bottle, it's a great value.

• Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Crianza - This wine is made from a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Graciano grapes, giving it a complex flavor profile with notes of red fruit, spice, and vanilla. It's aged for 12 months in oak barrels, resulting in a smooth and well-balanced wine. At around $18 per bottle, it's a great choice for those looking for a slightly more refined option.

• Bodegas Volver Paso a Paso Tempranillo - This wine is made from 100% Tempranillo grapes and is sourced from vineyards located at high elevations, resulting in a wine with bright acidity and fresh fruit flavors. It's aged for 4 months in oak barrels, adding a touch of spice and complexity to the wine. At around $12 per bottle, it's a great value for a delicious Tempranillo.

Tempranillo is a versatile and delicious wine that pairs well with a variety of foods.

Here are 10 pairings that complement the characteristics of Tempranillo wines

1. Grilled meats - Tempranillo's bold and fruity flavors pair perfectly with grilled meats such as beef, lamb, and pork.
2. Spanish tapas - Tempranillo is a Spanish grape, so it's no surprise that it pairs well with traditional Spanish tapas like patatas bravas, chorizo, and manchego cheese.
3. Paella - This classic Spanish rice dish is often made with chicken, seafood, or a combination of both, making it a great match for the complex flavors of Tempranillo.
4. Roasted vegetables - The earthy and smoky notes in Tempranillo make it a great pairing for roasted vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
5. Hard cheeses - Tempranillo's bold flavor stands up well to hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan and Pecorino.
6. Tomato-based dishes - The acidity in Tempranillo makes it a great match for tomato-based dishes like pasta with marinara sauce or a classic tomato and basil pizza.
7. Spicy food - Tempranillo's fruitiness helps to balance out the heat in spicy dishes like chili or curry.
8. Charcuterie - Tempranillo pairs well with cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni, as well as pâtés and terrines.
9. Roast chicken - The rich, savory flavors of roast chicken pair well with the earthy and smoky notes in Tempranillo.
10. Chocolate desserts - The fruity and slightly spicy flavors in Tempranillo make it a great match for chocolate desserts like flourless chocolate cake or chocolate truffles.