Spain in a Glass: Top Spanish Tempranillos to Try Now
Spain is one of the world’s most celebrated wine destinations, and if one grape captures its soul, it’s Tempranillo. Bold yet balanced, rustic yet refined, Tempranillo is Spain’s flagship red grape and the foundation of its most iconic wines.
From the oak-aged elegance of Rioja Tempranillo to the powerful structure of Ribera del Duero and the intense depth of Toro, this versatile grape tells the story of Spanish winemaking across diverse regions.
This guide explores the top Spanish Tempranillos, their unique regional expressions, and the best bottles you can buy today.
What is Tempranillo?
Tempranillo (pronounced tem-prah-NEE-yo) takes its name from temprano, meaning “early” in Spanish — a reference to its tendency to ripen sooner than other red grapes. Known for vibrant red fruit, earthy undertones, firm tannins, and an affinity for oak aging, Tempranillo can produce wines that are fresh and fruity or complex and age-worthy.
Top Regions for Spanish Tempranillo
1. Rioja DOCa – The Heart of Tempranillo
Rioja is the most famous and traditional home of Tempranillo, producing elegant, layered wines that often spend years aging in oak. Typically blended with Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo, Rioja Tempranillo ranges from youthful Crianzas to long-lived Gran Reservas.
Flavour Profile: Red cherry, leather, vanilla, dried herbs, dill
Top Producers: La Rioja Alta, Marqués de Murrieta, López de Heredia, Muga
Must-Try Rioja Tempranillos:
La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 – Polished, traditional, with decades of cellar potential
Marqués de Murrieta Reserva – Rich fruit, refined oak, and exceptional balance
2. Ribera del Duero DO – Power and Precision
In Ribera del Duero, Tempranillo is known as Tinto Fino or Tinta del País. Grown at high altitudes, these wines are concentrated, structured, and deeply coloured, with superb aging potential.
Flavour Profile: Black plum, blackberry, cedar, spice, tobacco
Top Producers: Vega Sicilia, Pingus, Emilio Moro, Aalto
Must-Try Ribera del Duero Tempranillos:
Vega Sicilia Único – Spain’s most iconic and collectible red wine
Aalto PS – Intense, elegant, and built for long cellaring
3. Toro DO – Bold and Rustic
Toro’s Tinta de Toro is a robust clone of Tempranillo that thrives in the region’s hot, dry climate. The wines are full-bodied, powerful, and inky, with bold tannins and concentrated flavours.
Flavour Profile: Black fruit, cocoa, smoke, spice
Top Producers: Numanthia, Teso La Monja, San Román
Must-Try Toro Tempranillos:
Numanthia – A modern powerhouse with spice and longevity
Teso La Monja Almirez – Rich, ripe, and approachable
4. Other Spanish Tempranillo Regions – Affordable Excellence
Tempranillo also thrives in Castilla y León, Navarra, Somontano, and Catalonia, where it often delivers great value without sacrificing quality.
Notable Bottles:
Dominio de Eguren Protocolo Tinto – Outstanding value everyday red
Torres Celeste Crianza – Fruit-forward Ribera del Duero style
Enate Crianza – Tempranillo with international flair
Best Spanish Tempranillos You Can Buy Now (Available on WineRelique.com)
La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 – Classic Rioja elegance with long oak aging
Marqués de Murrieta Reserva – Velvety, vibrant, and consistently outstanding
Vega Sicilia Único (Ribera del Duero) – Legendary Spanish red with endless depth
Aalto PS (Ribera del Duero) – Bold, structured, and cellar-worthy
Numanthia (Toro) – Intense, concentrated, and modern
Torres Celeste Crianza – Fresh, juicy, and perfect for weeknight enjoyment
Food Pairings for Tempranillo
Tempranillo is one of the most food-friendly Spanish red wines, pairing beautifully with:
Grilled lamb or beef
Spanish chorizo and charcuterie
Manchego cheese
Paella with smoky paprika
Mushroom and truffle dishes
Final Pour: The Essence of Spain in Every Glass
Tempranillo isn’t just a grape — it’s a cultural icon of Spain. Each region brings its own personality, from the polished elegance of Rioja to the untamed richness of Toro. Whether you’re new to Spanish wine or a seasoned collector, there’s a Tempranillo for every palate and occasion.
Pour yourself a glass, serve some Jamón Ibérico, and experience Spain — one sip at a time.
