Rioja Wine Has Reached New Heights-Learn the Reasons Behind Its Quality Improvement
In the heart of Spain's wine region, Rioja, we find ourselves at a crucial and fascinating moment. The region is finally beginning to articulate its diversity, thanks to a series of new classifications that have been introduced over the past few years.
One of the most significant changes is the Viñedo Singular classification, which makes its debut referring to a unique vineyard where the winery must prove to the Consejo Regulador de la Rioja that its vineyard is capable of producing a special wine worthy of the designation. This is a bold step forward, echoing the sentiments of the Terroir Manifesto, written by winemaker Telmo Rodríguez in 2015.
Rodríguez, the architect of the Terroir Manifesto, believes that Spain, and specifically Rioja, downplayed its diverse terroir by not including sub-appellations when the Rioja appellation gained official recognition 100 years ago. The Terroir Manifesto called for a classification system similar to Burgundy's, arguing that it would result in better wine. The argument was about pushing Rioja forward while still appreciating its past.
The first raft of changes allowing for terroir to shine through took effect in 2017. The introduction of Vino de Zona let winemakers call out larger subregions: Rioja Alavesa, Rioja Alta, and Rioja Oriental. Vino de Pueblo, another new classification, allows for grapes grown in or near one town to be fermented, aged, and bottled in another.
Master sommelier Keith Goldston is excited about these new Rioja classifications, particularly at Houston's Post Oak Hotel. Goldston has Muriel Reserva Vino de Elciego (Vino de Pueblo) and Luis Alegre Parcela No. 5 (Viñedo Singular) on his list. He says these newer classifications allow for a 'sense of place' in wine.
Bodega Bideona, a winery that uses inventive monikers to communicate the name of the village the grapes were grown in, has benefited greatly from the update to the Vino de Pueblo regulations. The update has been a boon to many wineries, providing them with the opportunity to showcase their unique terroir.
Raquel Pérez Cuevas is working on initiatives to educate wine professionals and consumers about the new categories. She and her colleagues, Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen, wine, spirits, food, and travel writers, educators, and hosts, have been featured guests on the Today Show, The Martha Stewart Show, and other media outlets, spreading the word about the exciting changes in Rioja.
Meanwhile, in the world of cocktails, a daring Tiki cocktail with a Scotch twist is being made. And on the spirits front, Elijah Craig's new bourbon is finished with toasted sugar maple and applewood staves, adding a unique flavour profile to this classic spirit.
The search results do not contain the name of the winemaker who wrote the Terroir Manifesto in 2015. However, his impact on the Rioja wine region is undeniable, as the region embraces its diverse terroir and moves towards a brighter, more exciting future.
Read also:
- Transforming the Romanian hospitality sector: Stadio Hospitality Concepts, shifting from culinary spots to iconic adventures
- Spectator's Prime Viewing Experience
- Unveiling the Harmful Aspects of Aquarium Ownership
- Fixing a crucial aspect in Apple's Studio Display stands to improve the experience for both gamers and creative professionals alike.
