Our Rioja Wines

Rioja is arguably the most famous Spanish wine region worldwide. Classified as DOCa (Denominación de Origen Calificada), it represents excellence and tradition, with elegant Tempranillo-based reds, as well as more discreet whites and
rosés. Striking a balance between modernity and centuries-old heritage, Rioja wines appeal both to explorers and lovers of classic styles.

The Terroirs of Rioja

Rioja is divided into three main zones:

• Rioja Alta: finesse, elegance, and aging potential.
• Rioja Alavesa: structure, freshness, and aromatic intensity.
• Rioja Oriental (formerly Rioja Baja): more generous, sun-drenched, and approachable wines.

This patchwork of terroirs, combined with varied altitudes and climatic influences (Atlantic vs Mediterranean), produces wines with contrasting and captivating profiles.

Grapes and Wine Styles of Rioja

• Tempranillo: the king grape, the heart of Rioja reds.
• Garnacha, Graciano, Mazuelo: supporting varieties adding complexity and nuance.
• Viura (Macabeo): main white grape, producing fresh wines, sometimes oak-aged.
• Maturana, Verdejo…: complete the richness of the appellation.

Rioja Wine Classifications

Rioja is known for its aging system, which structures the range and guides consumers:

• Crianza: minimum 2 years aging, including 1 year in oak. Approachable, balanced.
• Reserva: minimum 3 years aging, including 1 year in oak. More complex, perfect with refined dishes.
• Gran Reserva: minimum 5 years aging, including 2 years in oak. Age-worthy, elegant, and deep.
• Viñedo Singular: a recent designation highlighting exceptional vineyard plots.

Our Vinodelice Selection: Gómez Cruzado & Izadi

At Vinodelice, we focus on estates that embody the soul of Rioja, starting with Gómez Cruzado, one of the historic bodegas of Haro, in the heart of Rioja Alta. Renowned in WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) courses for their typicity and precision, their wines offer an ideal panorama of DOCa Rioja:

• Gómez Cruzado Rioja Crianza 2021: immediate expression of Tempranillo — fruit, balance, elegance.
• Gómez Cruzado Rioja Reserva 2014: complexity and depth, a classic Reserva example.
• Gómez Cruzado Viña Dorana Reserva 2017: aromatic intensity and finesse, typical of Rioja Alavesa.
• Gómez Cruzado Honorable 2016 & 2014: top-of-the-line —
  richness, length, and excellent aging potential.
• Gómez Cruzado Rioja Blanco 2021: freshness and liveliness, made from Viura.
• Gómez Cruzado El Predilecto 2022: modern, fruity red — approachable and charming.

Additionally, we offer the exceptional Izadi El Regalo Viñedo Singular 2018, from a unique vineyard in Rioja Alavesa, a wine of true character.

Why Choose a Rioja Wine?

• Diversity: from easy-drinking Crianza to age-worthy Gran
  Reserva.
• Global reputation: DOCa Rioja is Spain’s most prestigious
  appellation.
• Typicity: wines that combine fruit, delicate oak, and balance.
• Educational reference: estates like Gómez Cruzado are cited in WSET programs, confirming their representativeness.

Food Pairings

• Crianza: ideal with tapas, grilled meats, or Iberian charcuterie.
• Reserva: pairs perfectly with roast lamb, braised meats, or aged cheeses.
• Gran Reserva: excellent with game or slow-cooked dishes.
• Rioja white: enjoy with seafood, grilled fish, or mild cheeses.

Once you finish your journey through Rioja vineyards, don’t forget to explore the rest of our Spanish wine selection.

FAQ – Rioja Wine

Which grape varieties are used in Rioja wines?
Mainly Tempranillo, along with Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo. Viura dominates the whites.

What is the difference between Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva?
These terms indicate aging time in oak and bottle. The higher the designation, the more complex and age-worthy the wine.

Are there Rioja white wines?
Yes, mainly from Viura, sometimes oak-aged, offering a unique style combining freshness and roundness.

What is a “Viñedo Singular”?
A recent designation for exceptional vineyard plots, producing wines of character, like Izadi El Regalo.

Where to buy Rioja wine online?
Vinodelice offers a curated selection of Rioja wines, including iconic producers like Gómez Cruzado.