Tempranillo

The principal red wine grape of Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and other regions of Spain, Tempranillo produces consistently structured and balanced wines of med-high tannin, acidity, and alcohol. Fruit character can range from strawberries to blackberries, and there is often tobacco, cocoa, herbal, and floral notes. It is a very versatile grape that can be produced in many different styles. Tempranillo is especially interesting in the way that it takes up and expresses its oak treatment, making it very much a winemaker's grape. For us, the spicier the better! Sierra Foothills versions are gaining in popularity and quality and are showing exciting potential for very high quality versions.