Rioja

Rioja is undoubtedly Spain‘s most famous wine region, and I recently visited two very different wineries.

Tierra Winery in Rioja Alavesa was our first stop. Our host was José Manuel, who has family ties to the land, although he’s not a part owner. He grew up in the area, and characterizes the winery as a mix of playful, creative, yet grounded, recognizing the elements that man cannot change: the soil, and the weather. beyond that, Tierra is a playground for their winemaker and staff, and the small winery (they make less than 20,000 cases per year), make 17 different wines. they also use a variety of fermenting and aging containers, ranging from the traditional wood barrels, stainless steel, ceramic vats, concrete eggs, and even to their knowledge, the first marble fermenter.

Tierra as a winery is just over 30 years old, but even as a small winery has received acclaim from wine writers such as the well-known Tim Atkins. Their wines respect the traditions of Rioja, but are not bound by it.  if I had to characterize their wines, my impressions are that they are fresh, food, friendly, use little to no oak.  they are very much focused on letting the grapes express the character of the land. 

The Tierra white (simply labeled as “Tierra“), is an inexpensive yet carefully made white wine, composed of 60% Viura, 30% Garnacha blanca, and 10% Malvasía. licensed, subtle aromas of citrus, green apple, white flowers. The palate was clean and crisp, with a light lingering finish. Perfect with any kind of seafood or just on its own.

Tierra Fidel, a blend of 50% Graciano and 50% Garnacha. Rich and powerful, lingering all the pallet, yet fresh. My favorite wine of the bunch. And no Tempranillo!

I found the wines of Tierra to be straightforward, unadorned, and true to its name, let the flavors of the land shine. The passion and dedication of the winemaker (Carlos Fernandez Gomez) and José Manuel was also evident. What a wonderful introduction to Rioja, the Rioja of today.

Next, a visit to La Rioja Alta, a historic and classic Rioja winery.