Rueda - Tempranillo

Rueda is a wine region in Spain known for its production of white wines, particularly those made from the Verdejo grape variety. The region is situated in the central part of the country, in the autonomous community of Castilla y León. Rueda has gained recognition for producing refreshing and aromatic white wines that are well-suited for warm weather.

More information about Rueda

Rueda experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The temperature fluctuations between day and night help to preserve acidity in the grapes, contributing to the freshness of the wines. The region's vineyards are planted in a variety of soils, including limestone, gravel, and sandy soils. These diverse soil types can influence the character of the wines produced.

While Verdejo is the primary grape, some winemakers in Rueda also work with Sauvignon Blanc and Viura. The wines produced in Rueda range from young and vibrant to more complex, barrel-aged versions. The majority, however, are unoaked to showcase the pure expression of the Verdejo grape. Rueda has a Denominación de Origen (DO) status, which is a classification system in Spain that regulates the production of wines in specific regions to ensure quality and authenticity.

Rueda's white wines, especially those made from Verdejo, pair well with a variety of foods. They complement seafood, salads, light appetizers, and are also enjoyable on their own as a refreshing drink. Rueda has become increasingly popular in international markets, and its white wines are celebrated for their quality, versatility, and value. If you're a fan of crisp and aromatic white wines, exploring those from Rueda, particularly those made from Verdejo, can be a delightful experience.

What grapes are used in Rueda?

The primary grape variety used in Rueda is Verdejo. Verdejo is a white grape variety indigenous to the Rueda region and is known for producing aromatic and crisp white wines. The wines made from Verdejo often exhibit notes of citrus, green apple, and sometimes tropical fruit, making them refreshing and well-suited for warm weather.

In addition to Verdejo, some winemakers in Rueda may also work with other white grape varieties, albeit to a lesser extent. Sauvignon Blanc and Viura (also known as Macabeo) are examples of white grape varieties that might be used in blends or as varietal wines in the region. However, Verdejo remains the star grape of Rueda, and wines labeled as Rueda Verdejo are typically made predominantly or entirely from this grape variety.

Verdejo has played a crucial role in establishing Rueda as a notable white wine region in Spain, and its wines are appreciated for their aromatic complexity, bright acidity, and versatility with food pairings.