History

• The practice of European wines began back in the 11th century BC when Phoenician settlers arrived in northern Spain. In fact, many wineries were made by the Romans and are still used today. Spanish Rioja wine gained much notoriety in the late 19th century when France's Bordeux grapes were infected with a disease called phylloxera.

Climate

• Spain has an ideal climate for growing grapes. The grapes used for Rioja and many other wines grow alongside the Rio Oja River in northern Spain in the La Rioja province. The Cantabrian Mountains lie directly north and provide protection from harsh winds. The area receives between 12 and 20 inches of rain per year, with the annual harvest taking place in the months of September and October.

Varieties and Taste

• Rioja wine comes in red, white and rose varieties. Red Rioja is the most popular with its rich scarlet color and classically bold taste. It is made predominately of Tempranillo grapes. Rose varieties are produced from Garancha grapes and have a crystal pink color. They have a tamer taste from the red Rioja. White Rioja wine has a green/yellow color to it, and is very spring-like with a light taste. This type is made from Viura grapes.