The Tempranillo grape, one of the most emblematic and appreciated varieties, has gained worldwide recognition thanks to its unique characteristics and versatility in the production of high-quality wines. With a rich history and a significant presence in some of the most prestigious wine regions, this grape is a true treasure trove of viticulture.

The name “Tempranillo” comes from the word “early”, because this grape ripens earlier than many other varieties. Although the name Tempranillo is the best known, this grape is also known by other names in different regions of Spain and the world. In La Rioja, it is called “Tinta del País”, while in Ribera del Duero it is known as “Tinto Fino”. In Portugal, particularly in the Douro region, it is known as “Tinta Roriz” and in some areas of the Alentejo it is called “Aragonês”.

The Tempranillo grape is a thick-skinned red variety, which contributes to the intensity of color in the wines it produces. Tempranillo bunches are usually medium-sized, with spherical berries of a dark blue to bluish-black color. This grape adapts to various climatic conditions, although it prefers climates with warm days and cool nights, which favors a slow and balanced ripening of sugars and acids.

Wines made with Tempranillo tend to be medium to full-bodied, with moderate acidity and varying levels of tannins, depending on the winemaking style. Its aromatic profile is complex and can include notes of red and black fruits, such as cherries, plums, and blackberries, along with undertones of tobacco, leather, vanilla, and spices, mainly when aged in oak barrels.

The Tempranillo grape is prized for its ability to produce a wide range of wine styles, from young, fruity wines to robust, long-lived wines. In Ribera del Duero, it is common to find Tempranillo wines that have been aged in oak barrels, which adds complexity and depth to the aromatic and taste profile.

One of the most outstanding properties of Tempranillo is its balance between acidity, tannins and alcohol, which makes it suitable for both single-varietal wines and blends. In the Ribera del Duero, the Regulatory Council allows a percentage of blending with Cabernet-Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Garnacha Tinta or, Albillo, the only authorized white.

An example is our Semele red wine, which has a percentage of 90% Tempranillo and 5-10% Merlot.

One of the characteristics of the Tempranillo grape is that it has a good aging capacity. The Reserva and Gran Reserva wines of the Ribera del Duero are classic examples of how this grape can develop complexity and elegance over time, acquiring notes of dried fruits, spices, tobacco and leather that complement the flavors of ripe fruits.

Spain is the leading producer of Tempranillo grapes, with the regions of La Rioja and Ribera del Duero leading the way in terms of quality and prestige.

Ribera del Duero produces Tempranillo wines known for their intensity and structure. Wines tend to be more robust and concentrated, reflecting the more extreme climate and diverse soils. Ribera del Duero wines have gained international recognition and raised the profile of Tempranillo as a world-class variety. Ribera del Duero wines are classified into four categories: young, crianza, reserva, and gran reserva, with an increasing emphasis on aging and complexity as you move up the rankings.

At Bodegas Montebaco, Tempranillo is a fundamental pillar of our wines, forming 100% of Montebaco de Finca, Montebaco CaraNorte, Montebaco Selección Especial and with a very high percentage of red Semele and Montebaco Rosé.

The Tempranillo grape is a fundamental pillar of Spanish viticulture and one of the most versatile and appreciated grape varieties worldwide. Its various names reflect its rich history and its adaptability to different regions and winemaking styles. With its ability to produce balanced and complex wines, from young and fruity to aged and sophisticated, Tempranillo continues to captivate winemakers and wine lovers alike.