WINE TYPES - CLASSIFICATION AND SEAL OF AUTHENTICITY

Rioja wines are easily identifiable as every bottle has a DOCa seal. What is a DOCa seal? The “Denominación de Origen Calificada” seal ensures that the wine you enjoy meets the requirements needed to be a true Rioja wine. Think of it as a seal of quality and authenticity.

Rioja wines are classified based on aging in oak barrels and bottles:

REDS

Guarantee of Origin
Guarantees the DOC Rioja origin and vintage of the wine. Generally speaking, these are young red wines, though they can also be whites or rosés. This label is also used in a minority of wines which don’t suit the Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva categories.

Crianza
Used to describe wines that have been aged 12-18 months in oak barrels, and at least another year in bottle. Prices generally range from $6 to $20. Crianza wines are usually the “wine of choice” for most Riojans on a daily basis. Its strong Tempranillo character and overtones of cherry makes this wine excellent for pairing with any food.

Reserva
Used to describe wines that have been aged in oak barrels 18-24 months, and 12-24 months in bottle. Prices generally range from $14 to $40. Reserva wines are known for its deep and complex flavors – from hints of vanilla to cherries and wild berries. Exceptional when paired with grilled foods and game.

Gran Reserva
Used to describe wines that have been aged in oak barrels 24-36 months, and 36 months in bottle. Prices range from $18 and up. Gran Reserva wines are exquisite and, needless to say, only exceptional vintages can make such a wine. Known for its intense depth, these wines offers the palate hints of cedar and wild berries.

WHITES AND ROSÉS

Crianza
Aged for at least six months in oak barrel.

Reserva
Aged for a minimum of two years, of which at least six months are aged in oak barrels.

Gran Reserva
Rare wines only made in exceptional vintages and aged for at least four years, including one year or more in oak barrels.