The Douro region in northern Portugal
© Courtesy of Bob Holler

Great grapes

Growing world-class red wines in Portugal and Spain

by Bob holler

Recently Costco’s wine team explored Spain’s Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions, as well as Portugal’s Douro region. These regions produce age-worthy red wine from the same grape, which is called by different names in each region. The grape is called Tempranillo in Rioja, Tinto Fino or Tinta del Pais in Ribera del Duero, and Tinta Roriz in Portugal.

Spain

Rioja region red wines have commanding flavors of cherry, plum and raspberry. Winemakers in this region predominantly use American oak, which contributes to soft round tannins, and imparts flavors of vanilla and sweet spices. Small percentages of Graciano and Mazuelo grapes are often added to increase complexity and aromatics. Wines from this region tend to be lighter and more elegant than wines from Ribera del Duero.

Wines from the Ribera del Duero region are often 100% Tinto Fino or Tinta del Pais, but small amounts of cabernet, merlot and malbec can be added to the blend. These wines are full-bodied, deeply concentrated, and complex with black fruit character and great acidity. French oak is preferred in this region. While French oak imparts some of the same flavors as American oak, the flavors tend to be more subtle.

Spanish wines are often labeled with an aging statement. Crianza is aged in barrels and bottled for a minimum of two years, while Reserva is aged for three years and Gran Reserva is aged for five years.

Portugal

Portugal is home to an astonishing 250 indigenous grape varieties, many of which are grown in the picturesque, terraced Douro region. Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Trincadeira and Touriga Nacional are the most notable varieties. This hot, dry region produces wines with concentrated bold fruit, complexity and high tannins.

Douro is also home to tawny and age-worthy vintage port (fortified wine). Other regions, such as Dao, Lisbon and Alentejo, produce a range of wines from light and fruity to more serious with notable minerality and solid structure. The diverse wines of Portugal are like a hidden treasure just waiting for you to explore.

When you visit your local Costco warehouse, we hope you’ll be impressed with the fruits of our visit to these regions. I know I am!