Joyce J
29 June 2023
Tempranillo is a red grape variety that originated in Spain, and has become one of the world’s most famous wine grapes. It is known for its versatility and adaptability to different climates, making it an ideal choice for winemakers around the globe. In Australia, Tempranillo has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique taste profile and its ability to pair well with many different types of cuisine.
Tempranillo produces wines that are medium-bodied with moderate tannins and acidity. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy full-bodied wines but prefer something more approachable. Australian Tempranillos are often characterised by their fruity flavours of black cherry, plum, and raspberry, along with notes of vanilla and spice from oak ageing.
If you’re looking to try some Australian Tempranillo wines, look out for ones from regions such as the Adelaide Hills or McLaren Vale in South Australia or Margaret River in Western Australia. These regions produce some of the best examples of this varietal which can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a meal pairing. Overall, Tempranillo offers something unique for wine enthusiasts who want to explore beyond traditional options like Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir.
History of Tempranillo in Australia
Tempranillo is a grape variety that has been grown in Spain for centuries. It was brought to Australia by Spanish immigrants in the 19th century, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that Australian winemakers began to take an interest in this grape. Today, Tempranillo is one of the most popular red wine varieties in Australia.
The first commercial plantings of Tempranillo were made in the 1990s, primarily in the warm regions of South Australia such as McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley. The grape did well in these areas, producing wines with strong structure and bold flavour profiles. As more winemakers experimented with this grape, they discovered that it also thrived in cooler regions like Victoria’s Yarra Valley and Western Australia’s Margaret River.
Today, Australian winemakers are producing some outstanding Tempranillo wines that showcase the unique terroir of each region. Some notable examples include Hentley Farm’s ‘The Old Legend’ from Barossa Valley and Heathcote Estate’s ‘Shiraz/Tempranillo’ blend from Victoria. With its versatility and ability to express its surroundings so well, there is no doubt that Tempranillo will continue to be a mainstay of Australian winemaking for years to come.
Popular Regions for Growing Tempranillo
One of the most popular regions for growing Tempranillo is Rioja, Spain. The warm and dry climate in this region allows for the perfect ripening of grapes. Rioja is known for producing complex and full-bodied Tempranillo wines with notes of black cherry, vanilla, and tobacco.
Another region where Tempranillo thrives is Ribera del Duero, also located in Spain. This region has a high elevation which results in a cooler climate compared to other areas in Spain. This difference in climate leads to grapes that have a higher acidity level and more concentrated flavours. Ribera del Duero’s Tempranillo wines are known for their rich texture, intense fruit flavors, and spicy finish.
In addition to Spain, Tempranillo is also grown in Portugal’s Douro Valley where it is called Tinta Roriz or Aragonez. In this region, the grape produces medium-bodied wines with aromas of red berries and spices. These wines offer a balance between fruitiness and acidity making them excellent food pairing options.
Overall, these regions produce some of the best Tempranillo wines around the world due to their unique climates and soil conditions that allow for the perfect growth of this grape variety.
Characteristics of Australian Tempranillo
One of the characteristics that sets Australian Tempranillo apart from its Spanish origins is its fruit-forward nature. The warmer climate of Australia allows for riper and juicier grapes, resulting in a wine that exhibits flavours of cherry, blackberry, and plum. These fruit notes are often accompanied by subtle hints of vanilla and spice.
Another characteristic unique to Australian Tempranillo is its structure. While still retaining the classic medium-bodied nature of the grape varietal, Australian winemakers tend to produce wines with higher tannin levels and acidity than their Spanish counterparts. This gives the wine a firmer structure and more prominent mouthfeel.
Finally, Australian Tempranillo often shows a longer ageing potential compared to other New World versions of this grape. With proper cellaring techniques, these wines can develop further complexity over time while maintaining their signature fruitiness and structural stability. Overall, Australian Tempranillo offers an exciting variation on this classic grape variety that promises both familiarity and novelty to wine lovers worldwide.
Food Pairings with Australian Tempranillo
Australian Tempranillo is becoming increasingly popular due to its versatility and complexity. This wine can be a great companion for various dishes, making it an ideal choice for food pairings. Pairing it with the right food can significantly enhance the taste of the wine, bringing out its various flavours and aromas.
One great pairing for Australian Tempranillo is grilled meats such as lamb or beef. The tannins in the wine are strong enough to cut through the richness and tenderness of these meats, while also complementing their flavours. Another excellent pairing is Spanish tapas, which typically includes cured meats, olives, and cheese. These small plates are a perfect match for Tempranillo’s earthy undertones and subtle fruitiness.
For those looking for vegetarian options, roasted vegetables such as eggplant or zucchini can bring out Tempranillo’s nuanced flavour profile while not overpowering its delicacy. Additionally, spicy dishes like chilli con carne or stuffed peppers make an exciting pairing with Australian Tempranillo due to its medium-bodied structure that stands up well to heat and spices without losing any of its own unique character.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Wine
In conclusion, Tempranillo is a must-try wine for any wine lover. It not only has a unique and distinct taste but also provides an excellent balance of fruity flavours and tannins. The Australian version is no exception as it offers rich notes of blackberry, cherry, and plum with hints of spice that make it enjoyable on any occasion.
One significant advantage of Tempranillo is its versatility in food pairing. It pairs well with different types of dishes ranging from roasted meats to spicy Mexican cuisine. This means that you can enjoy this wine with your favourite meal without worrying about ruining the taste.
In summary, if you are looking for a new wine to try out or want to switch up your regular options, give Tempranillo a chance. Its unique taste profile combined with its versatility makes it an excellent choice for any occasion – whether it’s a casual dinner party or formal event.
