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What is a Rioja wine?
Rioja wine is a type of wine produced in the La Rioja region, Spain. It is made mainly with red grapes such as Tempranillo and Garnacha, although white grapes such as Viura and Malvasía are also used for white wines.
Rioja wine is balanced, structured and suitable for aging. It is versatile in pairing and is enjoyed with a variety of foods.
The Battle of Rioja Wine
On June 29, a symbolic wine war is celebrated in the town of Haro, in the La Rioja region, in which participants throw red wine at each other.
The participants, dressed in white t-shirts and red headscarves, gather on a hill known as “Riscos de Bilibio.” There, with wine boots or any other container they can carry, they throw the wine at each other while having fun and enjoying the party. The goal is to soak up the wine and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
The Battle of Wine is a unique and peculiar way to celebrate wine culture in the Rioja region, and attracts thousands of people each year who participate in this experience full of fun and camaraderie.
In this article, we will present you the best Rioja wines according to the prestigious DWWA 2023 awards, so that you can enjoy them this holiday season. Of course, I wouldn't waste them by throwing them at anyone!
Best Rioja wines in Spain?
Jesus Acha
- Store: Pact Vineyards
- Q Cupping Score: 97 points
- Denomination of Origin (DO): Rioja
- CATA's notes: Its high layer and violet and red tones in the view anticipate a rewarding sensory experience. On the nose, its intensity and the combination of berries, licorice, undergrowth, spices and chocolate awaken the senses. In the mouth, its fullness and balance, together with the freshness and persistence of the fruit and the notes of the barrel, create an exceptional taste experience. This wine is a sample of the quality and art of winemaking that will delight the most demanding palates.
Iraila Garnacha
- Store: Remírez de Ganuza Wineries
- Q Cupping Score: 97 points
- Denomination of Origin (DO): Rioja
- CATA's notes: Its fresh and expressive nose reveals a captivating aromatic complexity, with floral notes and the liveliness of fresh fruit. In the mouth, its juicy and smooth texture delights the palate, providing a refreshing sensation and a charming finish that invites another sip.
Remírez de Ganuza Reserve 2012
- Store: Remírez de Ganuza Wineries
- Q Cupping Score: 97 points
- Denomination of Origin (DO): Rioja
- CATA's notes: It is presented in the glass with a beautiful purplish black color, showing its intensity and depth. On the nose, a fine and complex profile is revealed with soft aromas of ripe red and black fruit. These aromas intertwine, creating a seductive and tempting fragrance. In the mouth, it demonstrates its tasty and collected character. The tannins are well polished, offering a soft and pleasant texture. It is a wine that unfolds widely on the palate, showing its elegance and delicacy.
Monty Viura Reserve Vineyard
- Store: Montecillo Wineries
- Q Cupping Score: 96 points
- Denomination of Origin (DO): Rioja
- CATA's notes: Bright straw yellow, glyceric in the movement of the glass. The nose shows intense mineral notes, herbs and scrubland along with aromas of pastries and sweet woods. Intense citrus nuances and white fruit such as ripe pear and quince are also perceived. Very glyceric, voluptuous palate. Great elegance and exquisite acidity, which envelops the mouth, making it fresh and fruity and very long.
Altanza Club Reserve
- Store: Bodegas Altanza
- Q Cupping Score: 96 points
- Denomination of Origin (DO):Rioja
- CATA's notes: Its bright cherry color stands out. On the nose, it surprises with a fresh and expressive combination of floral notes, cherry and fresh fruit. Upon tasting it, a juicy, soft and refreshing mouthfeel is revealed, which delights the senses. As for its ending, it is charming and leaves a lasting impression.
These wines represent the best of the Rioja region and are exceptional examples of the quality, variety and winemaking expertise found in the area. Whether for special occasions or to enjoy at any time, these wines offer a unique and satisfying experience for wine lovers. Discover the captivating flavors and aromas of these Rioja wines and let yourself be carried away by the charm and excellence in every sip.
We recommend that you try them!
Remember that in KOALA we have a wide range of accessories for wine lovers: corkscrews and openers, pourers and aerators, bomb of void… and much more!
All these accessories will allow you enjoy the experience of drinking good wine to the fullest.