The 2nd Thursday of November marks Tempranillo day, what better opportunity for you to showcase this versatile and characterful variety to customers. From juicy reds to elegant oak-aged wines, Tempranillo offers something for everyone—making it a must-have on any wine list.
Tempranillo is Spain’s most famous, and most planted red grape. It is most known for its part in Rioja but you’ll find it in Ribera del Duero wines as well as in Port, under the name of Tinta Roriz and fine wines of California. We love it for it when its young, smooth, fruity and easy drinking. But also aged, some of the best for decades, when it becomes complex with flavours of vanilla, leather and cedar.
The grape name, Tempranillo, comes from the Spanish word for early, ‘temprano’ as it ripens earlier than other native grapes. Over 80% of the worlds plantings are found in Spain where the grape is said to have been introduced over 3000 years ago by the Phoenicians. The skin is thin, so ripens well in a cooler climate, but it can handle heat well at high altitudes meaning that the wine can have both high acidity and high alcohol.
If you’ve never tasted Tempranillo before, what can you expect? Young wines are fruity red cherry and plum sometimes with tomato and dried fig. As the wine ages, its usually in oak for at least 6 months but can go years, it develops cedar, leather, tobacco and cloves notes, with a darker fruit profile. Tannins are usually high but smooth and add in the medium to high acidity and we’ve got an excellent food match choice. Traditional Spanish favourites, cured meats, cheese, grilled meats all work well, but Tempranillo is also a great choice for tomato based pasta dishes, pizza, barbequed meats and smoky dishes. A surprising pairing are Mexican dishes such as tacos and burritos.
When it comes to having great Tempranillo on your list, Sierra Cantabria stands out. We have been working with the Eguren family for over 20 years at Gerrard Seel, bringing some of the best Tempranillo wines directly to your customers. Over the years the range has evolved but their quality has always remained high.
Located in Rioja Alta, Sierra Cantabria combines 5 generations of winemaking knowledge using both traditional and modern techniques. Current wine makers Marcos and Miguel, have embraced a biodynamic approach to wine production, following natural cycles to deepen their link to their vineyards and the environment.
Sierra Cantabria’s Crianza and Reserva Tempranillos are particularly celebrated, showing balance between bright red fruit, subtle spice, and soft, refined tannins.
How to Celebrate Tempranillo Day
- Feature a Tempranillo Tasting – Try young and juicy versus oak aged Reservas
- Food Pairing Menu – Tempranillo pairs beautifully with baked pasta dishes, and roasted & grilled meats.
- Tell the Story – Customers love a story. Highlight Sierra Cantabria’s and what makes Tempranillo unique on your wine list.
- Special Offers – Try an offer on by the glass or a discount on Tempranillo based wines to get customers to try something new.
Download our Tempranillo Fact Sheet.
Tempranillo isn’t just a grape; it’s a journey into Spain’s winemaking, and 13th November is the perfect moment to put Tempranillo and Sierra Cantabria in the spotlight.