What is a Rioja Crianza Wine?
When exploring Spanish wines, Rioja stands out as one of the most prestigious regions. Among its classifications, Crianza holds a special place, offering an excellent balance between quality and affordability. But what exactly is a Rioja Crianza wine?
The “Definition” of Crianza
Rioja wines are classified based on their ageing process. A Crianza wine must be aged for at least two years, with a minimum of one year in oak barrels. This ageing process imparts structure, complexity, and subtle oak characteristics while preserving the wine’s fruit-forward nature.
Flavour Profile
Rioja Crianza wines are typically made from Tempranillo grapes. They offer bright red fruit flavours such as cherry, raspberry, and plum, complemented by notes of vanilla, spice, and a hint of toasted oak. The tannins are smooth, making them incredibly approachable.
Food Pairing
Thanks to their balanced acidity and moderate tannins, Rioja Crianza wines pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. They complement roasted meats, cured ham, hard cheeses, and traditional Spanish tapas like chorizo or patatas bravas.
Why Choose a Rioja Crianza?
A Rioja Crianza is a perfect introduction to aged Spanish wines. It offers more depth than a young Joven wine while remaining fresher and more affordable than the longer-aged Reserva and Gran Reserva styles. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate both fruitiness and subtle complexity in their wine.
Whether you’re new to Rioja or a seasoned wine lover, a Crianza is always a reliable and rewarding choice.
Have you tried our Altanza Crianza? A well- balanced, and outstanding Crianza, 100% Tempranillo, that spends 12 months inside french oak barrels plus an extra aging process inside French oak vats. It’s an excellent to go choice, worth a try!!