IN THE BOTTLE 

Our Tempranillo is from Rioja, an area in north-central Spain, just to the south of the mountainous Basque coast. Aromas of red plum, black cherry, and vanilla with a hint of tobacco and coffee. Smooth tannins, moderate acidity, and a long spicy finish. 

CLASSIC FLAVOR PROFILES OF VARIETAL 

Tempranillo's flavor profile can vary widely depending on how it is made. Classically, Tempranillo from Rioja is aged for many years in oak barrels and, in addition to ripe red and black fruits, shows notes of leather, tobacco, and clove. Younger, fresher styles of Tempranillo that are aged for much less time in oak barrels (or even in stainless steel) focus on a bright, light fruit profile. 

VARIETAL FACTS 

Tempranillo is the most widely planted grape in Spain and is made at all quality levels, from fresh and easy drinking entry level wines to serious wines made for aging. Historically, Tempranillo from Rioja uses American oak for barrel aging, which can add aromas of dill and coconut not found by using French oak.

HISTORY

The name Tempranillo comes from the Spanish word "temprano" which means early and refers to the grape's tendency to ripen early. Although historical records for the name Tempranillo go as far back as the 13th century, it is likely that the term referred to many early ripening varieties grown at the time. Tempranillo as we know it was first identified in the early 19th century in Rioja and its abundant yields and high-quality fruit helped it spread quickly throughout the entire Iberian Peninsula.  

DID YOU KNOW? 

If you buy a Tempranillo from Rioja not made by Cooper's Hawk (it's okay, there's lots of great wine in the world), you might be confused by words on the bottles like Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva. These indicate how long the wine has been aged: Crianza for two years, Reserva for three years, and Gran Reserva for five years. 

IF YOU LIKE THIS WINE, TRY: 

Malbec, Australian Shiraz 

Standard Bottle 750 ml

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