La Rioja
Did you know Ireland drinks more Rioja than anywhere else in the world? So....in Eurovision and Rioja consumption we are unmatched!
The Evolution of Rioja
La Rioja is possibly the most recognisable commercial wine style in the world. Made from Tempranillo, Garnacha and Graciano, comes in a range of styles, from traditional age classifications (Crianza, Reserva, Gran Reserva) to exciting new geographical classifications that showcase specific terroirs.
A New Wave Approach
While traditional Rioja is known for its extraction, oak and slight (controlled) oxidation, we celebrate a different style. We love Tempranillo - the chief component of Rioja - in its purest form. Many of the amazing wines in our selection eschew heavy oak and showcase how Rioja was made before the commercial Crianza style of wine became dominant.
Let Tempranillo Be Tempranillo
Our philosophy? Let this noble grape shine, sometimes with a couple of other varieties and even a white grape added for complexity. The result? The type of wines that express terroir and grape character rather than just oak and age classifications.
Discover Both Rioja Styles at WineStation:
Traditional Rioja
• Rioja Crianza (2 years aging, 1 in oak)
• Rioja Reserva (3 years aging, 1 in oak)
• Rioja Gran Reserva (5 years aging, 2 in oak)
Modern Rioja
• Minimal oak intervention
• Geographical classifications
• New Wave producers like the Rioja n Roll collective
• Pure fruit expression
• Historical pre-commercial styles
Do the Evolution
Join our wine school to experience the whole gamut of Rioja wine styles, from traditional to modern interpretations.
This guide for wine lovers will help you understand why this Spanish wine region continues to evolve and innovate while respecting its rich heritage.
Travel back in time and discover the Rioja of the past - legacy vines, old techniques and plots. Our Rioja wine school also lets you surf the new wave, modern, bright, funky Rioja: some seriously good grape juice.
