Eduardo Beltran of Faustino on Rioja

This show was published 24 October 2008

Overview

Rioja in the North of Spain near Bilbao and 500km from Barcelona. The region is around 500-600 metres up. Rioja made up of 3 regions - Rioja Baja, Rioja Alto and Rioja Alavesa. Baja hotter and produces slightly heavier wines. According to Eduardo, the Alavesa region has the best conditions for growing grapes.

There are 3 main styles - Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva. For Crianza the wine must spend 2 years in the winery and at least 12 months in oak barrels. For Reserva, at least 3 years in the winery and at least 12 months in barrel and for Gran Reserva at least 5 years in the winery and at least 2 years in oak.

The winemaker can use any type of oak they wish to achieve the desired style. For the Gran Reserva select the best grapes that will allow the wine to age.

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