The Tempranillo grape variety is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic in Spain and plays a crucial role in the production of some of the world’s most renowned wines.
With roots that extend over centuries, Tempranillo has left a deep imprint in the wine regions of La Rioja and Castilla La Mancha where Finca Valpiedra and Finca Antigua are located respectively.
In this article, we will explore some curiosities about this grape and how its cultivation and winemaking have evolved in these iconic areas.
Etymological origin
The name “tempranillo” derives from the Spanish word for “early”, because this variety ripens earlier than other red grapes. It is a short-cycle grape, which means that it reaches maturity in less time, making it ideal for climates where the seasons are shorter. Over the centuries, it has adopted different names depending on the region, such as: cencibel, tinta del país or tinto fino. In Portugal it is called tinta roriz or aragonêz.
A Spanish variety par excellence
The Tempranillo grape has been considered for centuries as a variety native to the north of Spain and, specifically, to the area of La Rioja. At present, it represents approximately 40% of the total Spanish vineyard. Its ability to adapt to different regions and its versatility in wine styles have given it an almost mythical status in Spanish wine culture.
Mentioned in ancient texts
The first written record in which it is mentioned is found in documents from Navarre in 1513. However, the variety was already present in the vineyards of La Rioja and other winegrowing areas long before that date, indicating that its cultivation was already well established.
The favorite variety of medieval monasteries
During the Middle Ages, Cistercian monks played a crucial role in its expansion in Spain. The monasteries, especially in La Rioja or Ribera del Duero encouraged the cultivation of this grape because of its ability to produce quality wines and aging. The monks used the wines for liturgical purposes, but also developed a deep knowledge of viticulture practices that would influence the development of the variety. Ora et labora through the vineyard.
The trip to America
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tempranillo began to travel outside Spain, taken by Spanish immigrants to countries such as Argentina and Mexico. However, it was not until the 21st century that this grape began to gain popularity in places such as California and Australia, where it is successfully cultivated, although with styles and characteristics very different from traditional Spanish wines.
The phylloxera plague and its impact
At the end of the 19th century, the phylloxera plague devastated European vineyards, including Tempranillo vineyards. However, the variety survived thanks to the rapid adoption of the grafting technique on American vine rootstocks resistant to phylloxera. This allowed it to continue to be the predominant grape in key regions such as La Rioja.
A versatile and appreciated grape
One of its most interesting curiosities is its versatility. Although it is usually associated with red wines, it can also be used to make high quality rosés and even sparkling wines. Depending on the winemaking style, the wines can be light and easy to drink, or more structured and complex, with the capacity to age for decades. It is a variety that, with time, becomes velvety.
Sustainable wines and biodiversity
In both La Rioja and La Mancha, winegrowers have begun to adopt more sustainable practices in the cultivation of Tempranillo, respecting biodiversity and applying organic farming techniques. These practices not only seek to improve the quality of the wine, but also to preserve the natural environment and the winemaking heritage of the regions.
Key differences between La Rioja and La Mancha
Designation: Tempranillo and cencibel are actually the same grape variety, but with different names depending on the region in which they are grown. Despite this, certain differences are sometimes found due to local growing conditions and winemaking styles.
Tempranillo is the most general and well-known name for this grape and is used in many regions of Spain and other countries and cencibel is the name given to Tempranillo in La Mancha and some areas of Valdepeñas.
ClimateLa Rioja has a more moderate climate thanks to the influence of the Ebro river, as well as the protection of the mountainous formations in the north and south, which allows sunny days and cooler nights, ideal conditions for growing grapes. La Mancha, on the other hand, is characterized by long winters and low temperatures, but very hot summers. This climatic difference is also reflected in the grapes.
Wine style: In La Rioja, wines tend to be elegant and complex, with a remarkable aging capacity. In La Mancha, wines are more robust and fruity, with less barrel influence in young wines, but with increasing interest in aging.
Tempranillo is a jewel of Spanish viticulture, and both La Rioja and La Mancha have given it their unique touch, bringing diversity and richness to the wine scene.
In both regions, this grape continues to conquer palates, and its history is far from over. If you are a lover of good wine, do not hesitate to explore the nuances that Tempranillo has in each of our wines!
At Familia Martínez Bujanda we have a wide portfolio of wines with this variety such as Zagal de Finca Antigua with fermentation in stainless steel tanks and subsequent maceration for 18 days and aging for 4 months in oak barrels.
Finca Valpiedra’s Cantos de Valpiedra is a very aromatic, fresh and mineral red wine, in which the Tempranillo grape is perfectly integrated after 12 months of aging in American and French oak barrels.
The Tempranillo grape is a true symbol of Spanish viticulture, whose historical roots, as well as its versatility, have been key to its expansion within and beyond our borders. The diversity offered by regions such as La Rioja and La Mancha in the cultivation of this grape highlights its ability to create unique wines, full of character and nuances that turn each glass of wine into a complete experience.
