Grapes of Spain

Spain is home to a wide variety of grape varieties, many of which are indigenous and unique to the country. Here are some of the commonly grown wine grapes in Spain:

Red Grape Varieties:

1. Tempranillo: Tempranillo is Spain’s most widely planted red grape variety and forms the backbone of many renowned Spanish wines. It is the primary grape used in regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero, offering flavors of red fruit, vanilla, and a balanced structure.
2. Garnacha (Grenache): Garnacha is another important red grape variety in Spain, particularly in regions like Priorat and Navarra. It produces wines with ripe red fruit flavors, spice, and a generous body.
3. Monastrell (Mourvèdre): Monastrell is primarily grown in southeastern Spain, especially in regions like Jumilla and Yecla. It produces wines with dark fruit flavors, earthy notes, and a robust structure.
4. Bobal: Bobal is a grape variety mainly grown in the Utiel-Requena region of Valencia. It offers wines with deep color, ripe fruit flavors, and a good tannic structure.
5. Mencía: Mencía is primarily cultivated in the northwestern region of Bierzo. It produces wines with flavors of red fruits, floral notes, and a vibrant acidity.

White Grape Varieties:

1. Albariño: Albariño is a prominent white grape variety grown in the Galicia region, particularly in Rías Baixas. It produces aromatic and crisp wines with flavors of citrus, stone fruits, and a distinct saline character.
2. Verdejo: Verdejo is primarily grown in the Rueda region and is known for producing aromatic white wines with flavors of tropical fruits, citrus, and a refreshing acidity.
3. Macabeo (Viura): Macabeo is a widely planted white grape variety used in the production of Cava and other sparkling wines. It offers crisp acidity, flavors of green apple, and floral aromas.
4. Xarel-lo: Xarel-lo is another grape variety used in the production of Cava. It contributes to the structure and complexity of the sparkling wines, offering flavors of citrus, apple, and a mineral character.
5. Godello: Godello is primarily grown in the northwestern regions of Valdeorras and Bierzo. It produces aromatic and textured white wines with flavors of stone fruits, citrus, and a fresh acidity.

These are just a few examples of the commonly grown grape varieties in Spain. The country’s diverse terroirs and winemaking traditions contribute to the production of a wide range of distinctive Spanish wines.