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Rioja: Revitalized Tradition, Unyielding Passion

10/05/2024 Production area

For over two millennia, Rioja has been the birthplace of a wine culture steeped in tradition and a passion for viticulture. In Northern Spain, where history weaves through the landscape and culture, the Qualified Designation of Origin Rioja embarks on a new journey to showcase to the world the grandeur and variety of its lands with the expertise and authority that only centuries can bestow.

Join us on an enthralling exploration of the DOCa. Rioja and discover why there are countless reasons to say #PonmeOtroRioja (#PourMeAnotherRioja).

A Centennial Legacy

Since time immemorial, the DOCa. Rioja has been a hub of viticulture; it boasts 66,240 hectares of vineyards spread across three zones: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental. Each region contributes its unique character to Rioja wine, influenced by a diversity of climates, soils, and landscapes, as well as by the dedication of its 14,300 winegrowers and 571 wineries; these zones give life to wines that transcend time.

1. Rioja Alta: 27,871 hectares of vineyards, where the Atlantic influence predominates and the soils range from clay-limestone, clay and iron, to alluvial.

In the higher areas, the grape's ripening is delayed, giving rise to wines with higher acidity, freshness, lower alcohol content, and great ageing potential. In the lower altitude areas, the grapes ripen more fully, resulting in smoother wines that ensure immediate enjoyment.

The Rioja Alta is also characterized by a variety in its soil types, where we can find the following:

Clay-limestone

Here, the vines grow vigorously and impart greater quality to the wine. They are ideal for cultivating the Tempranillo variety and favour the production of full-bodied wines.

Clay-iron

These are soils where grapes grow that give rise to fresh wines, with balanced body and acidity.

Alluvial

These permeable soils are rich in nutrients, perfect for producing lighter and fruitier wines.

This mosaic of soils is perfect for the most classic blends but also for terroir-driven wines.

2. Rioja Alavesa: 13,178 hectares of vineyards, with clay-limestone soils under the influence of the Atlantic climate.

Here, the vineyards are situated on terraces or in small plots. The dry and sunny Atlantic climate, along with the protection against moisture and cold provided by the Sierra de Cantabria, creates an environment conducive to the production of wines with unique and distinctive aromas.

In the Rioja Alavesa, clay-limestone soils predominate where the vines grow robustly and are the source of full-bodied, high-quality wines.

3. Rioja Oriental: 25,191 hectares of vineyards, with alluvial and clay-iron soils, and a warmer climate due to Mediterranean influence.

Formerly known as Rioja Baja, this area is characterized by its vast expanses of vineyards that benefit from the influence of the various rivers irrigating the region. Here, the drier and warmer climate in the lower altitude vineyards fosters the production of wines with greater structure and higher alcohol content. The mountainous areas of the Rioja Oriental are considered the coldest within the DOCa. Rioja, providing interesting contrasts and a wide diversity.

The Rioja Oriental has clay-iron soils, which give rise to fresh wines, with lesser body and higher acidity; and alluvial soils where lighter wines are born.

The Diversity of Rioja

In Rioja, diversity is the key. From the clay-limestone terroirs of Rioja Alavesa to the alluvial soils of Rioja Oriental, each area imparts its unique character into the wine. The reds, primarily made from Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo, offer a range of styles, from fresh and fruity to complex and structured.

Did you know that nine white varieties are cultivated in the DOCa. Rioja? Viura leads the production of white wines. Meanwhile, its rosé wines captivate with their liveliness and balance.

Innovation and Sustainability

The new generations of winemakers and vine growers in Rioja are committed to innovation and sustainability, adopting environmentally friendly practices and reviving native grape varieties. Rioja positions itself as a benchmark in sustainable viticulture, thus preserving its legacy for future generations.

The Unchanged Distinctiveness, The Novel Sameness

While the region continues to produce wines with the same passion and dedication as always, innovation and creativity have become fundamental pillars. It is the unchanged distinctiveness because the quality and unique character of Rioja wines endure over time, enriched by modernity and avant-garde. And it is the novel sameness because each sip is a new experience that retains the hallmark of quality and unique personality that epitomizes Rioja.

Discover the New Rioja

Rioja invites the world to discover a new facet of its wines, merging its rich historical heritage with an innovative and contemporary vision. With a wine for every occasion and palate, Rioja beckons you to be captivated by its unparalleled charm. When asked, do not hesitate to say #PonmeOtroRioja (Pour Me Another Rioja)