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GENERAL INFO >
LA RIOJA WINE REGION |
La Rioja is
perhaps the best-known region in Spain and is often
referred to as the Bordeaux of Spain. Located south of
the Cantabrian Mountains along the Ebro, Rioja benefits
from a continental climate. The mountains help to
isolate the region and has a moderating effect on the
climate.
La Rioja is further subdivided into three zones: Rioja
Alavesa, Rioja Alta and Rioja Baja. Many wines have
traditionally blended fruit from all three regions
though there is a slow growth in single zone wines. A
distinct characteristic of Rioja wine is the effect of
oak aging. First introduced in the early 18th century by
Bordeaux influenced winemakers, the use of oak and the
pronounced vanilla flavors in the wines has been a
virtual trademark of the region though some modern
winemakers are experimenting with making wines less
influenced by oak. |
