Tempranillo Summarized
In the eyes of many, Tempranillo is the official red grape of Texas. It's a red grape with dry sweetness, medium acidity, medium tannin, medium alcohol and considered a full-body grape.
Where is Tempranillo Grown in Texas?
What Does Tempranillo Taste Like?
Tempranillo is a red wine grape that is known for producing medium to full-bodied wines with flavors of cherry, plum, and tobacco, and a hint of spice. They are known for their balanced acidity and soft tannins, which make them approachable and easy to drink. They may also have notes of vanilla, leather, and spice, depending on the aging process and the oak barrels used.
Texas Tempranillo wines have a little more weight, medium to full-bodied, and generally carry more pronounced fruit flavors. They will generally have less pronounced notes of vanilla, leather, and spice however, as many Texas winemakers use French oak barrels instead of american wood. Spain uses primarily the much more intense American Oak for aging, which can whallop the wine.
Where Is Tempranillo From?
Tempranillo is Spain's most famous grape. Tempranillo is grown in many parts of Spain, including the regions of Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Penedès. It is also grown in nearby Portugal, where it is known as Tinta Roriz. It has since made it to the new world regions of California, Australia, Argentina, and now Texas.
Where Does Tempranillo Grow?
Tempranillo is a versatile grape variety that is able to adapt to a variety of growing conditions, which has contributed to its popularity and widespread cultivation in different regions around the world. It can be grown in cool, temperate climates as well as in hot, dry climates, and is known for its ability to produce high-quality wines in a range of styles.
What Styles of Wine Are Made of Tempranillo?
Spain produces a range of wine styles. In the most famous region of Rioja, Tempranillo is often blended with other grape varieties, such as Garnacha and Graciano, to create complex, multi-layered wines that are aged in oak barrels. In the region of Ribera del Duero, Tempranillo wines are known for their full body and bold, fruit-forward flavors.
Texas Tempranillo is more "French" in its approach to winemaking, yet closer to Spain in terms of fruit development. Amazing Tempranillo wines are being made in Texas, and now winemakers are making excellent rosé.
Suggested Tempranillo Food and Wine Pairings
If you are in Rioja, you frequently pair Tempranillo wines with roast lamb. The bold flavors of Rioja pair well with the rich, savory flavors of roast lamb.
In Ribera del Duero its time for cured meats: The full-bodied Tempranillo wines from this region of Spain are well-suited to the rich, salty flavors of cured meats such as chorizo and cured ham.
BBQ: The bold flavors of Texas BBQ, such as brisket and ribs, pair well with the full-bodied, fruit-forward flavors of Tempranillo.
Tex-Mex: The spicy flavors of Tex-Mex dishes, such as enchiladas and fajitas, are complemented by the spicy and fruity flavors of Tempranillo.
Grilled meats: The bold flavors of grilled meats, such as steak and pork chops, pair well with the rich, fruity flavors.
Cheese: Tempranillo's balanced acidity and soft tannins make it a good match for a variety of cheeses, including sharp cheddar and blue cheese.
In summary, Tempranillo is a versatile grape that frequently makes wine paired well with a range of Texas foods, from rich, savory dishes to lighter fare. Its bold, fruit-forward flavors make it a good choice for a variety of common Texas dishes.
