The Best Tempranillo Wines to try if you love bold, earthy reds

Mon, Jul 21, 25

Wine enthusiasts agree: If Spain had to crown a single red grape as its national treasure, it would be Tempranillo. Tempranillo is much more than a grape, it’s a storyteller that speaks in layers. Think of sun-warmed berries bursting with ripe plums. A whisper of dried herbs, tomato leaf, forest floor, and a grounded wisdom of earth, spice, leather, and time.

For over a thousand years, it has thrived on the Iberian Peninsula, serving as the lifeblood of regions like Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Toro. And from each region, it carries a slightly different accent that’s shaped by the soil, the sun, and the spirit of the place.

What Is Tempranillo?

Tempranillo (typically pronounced as tem-prah-NEE-yo) is derived from temprano, which means early in Spanish, because it ripens earlier than most red grapes. The early ripening of tempranillo preserves its acidity, especially in the warm, sun-soaked vineyards of Spain. A good winemaker can create a magical balance of freshness and richness, which adds to the irresistibility quotient.

The young versions of Tempranillos are packed with juicy cherry and plum flavors. And when you give it some time and perhaps a little oak, you can see it unfolding into deeper notes like tobacco, fig, leather, and spice. Tempranillo is naturally exquisite and doesn’t need to show off. It just shows up every time.

What’s the Flavor Profile of Tempranillo?

When you taste a Tempranillo, you’re stepping into flavor profiles that dwell in the sweet spot between a fruit-forward Pinot Noir and an age-worthy Bordeaux. We’re talking about cherry, red plum, dried fig, tomato leaf, and cedar. And, when it’s been kissed by oak, that’s when you’ll catch hints of vanilla, spice, and a warm, earthy finish that lingers just long enough.

The best tempranillo wines aren’t flashy or overdone. They’re subtle, soulful, and built for second pours. And that’s exactly why it’s worth coming back to again and again.

What are the Styles of Tempranillo?

Spanish winemakers sort Tempranillo by how long it’s been aged and honestly, each style is practically a personality type. Looking for the best tempranillo wines for any special occasion? Whether you’re breaking out a bottle on a casual Tuesday or stashing one for next year’s special occasion, there’s a Tempranillo that matches any moment.

Joven (Young)

Joven is Tempranillo in its freshest, fruitiest form. It doesn’t contain oak. Just bright red fruit, soft tannins, and easy vibes. Joven is what you reach for when you want something chill but still full of character.

Try it if you love Beaujolais or light-bodied reds with a little bounce. This is one of the best tempranillo wines that pairs beautifully with grilled veggies, pizza, tapas, or spicy tacos. It’s basically the friend who never shows up empty-handed—and always brings the good energy.

Crianza

Crianza is your weeknight hero. Aged for at least one year in oak and one in the bottle, Crianza Tempranillos are smooth, structured, and super easy to love. You can still taste the fruitiness of Joven, but now it’s dressed up with spice, vanilla, and a subtle toastiness.

Crianza makes one of the best Tempranillo wines. Try it if you're into Zinfandel or soft, oaked Cabs. Pairs beautifully with roast chicken, pasta Bolognese, pork chops, or a cheese board that’s heavier on the cured meats.

Reserva

If you’re into complexity, Reserva is for you! Reserva wines spend at least a year in oak and two years mellowing in bottle, and that extra time gives them depth and polish. You’ll find leathery aromas, ripe fruit, baking spice, and an earthy backbone that just won’t quit. Try it if you appreciate aged Merlot or Bordeaux blends with soul. It makes one of the best Tempranillo wines that pairs beautifully with rack of lamb, wild mushrooms, or a good Manchego drizzled with truffle honey. It’s definitely, elegance in a glass.

Gran Reserva

This is the big league. This is two years in oak and minimum three more in bottle. Gran Reserva Tempranillos are deeply expressive, complex, and built to age. Think forest floor, balsamic, dried cherry, and spice-box aromas that feel like walking through a Spanish cellar.

Try it if you’re into top-tier Brunello, older Napa Cab, or high-end Burgundy. Pairs beautifully with slow-cooked lamb, braised short ribs, grilled ribeye, or any meal where you're taking your time and making memories.

The best Tempranillo wines to try right now!

Vina Bujanda Rioja Crianza

The Vina Bujanda Rioja Tempranillo pours deep ruby with hints of violet. On the nose, it's a burst of blackberries, raspberries, and a creamy touch of caramel. The sip is extremely smooth and round, with a silky texture and just enough weight to feel indulgent. It finishes long, warm, and quietly unforgettable.

It makes it one of the best Tempranillo wine lists, pairing beautifully with herb-crusted lamb, grilled sausages, or a simple mushroom risotto. For a casual pairing, try it with Manchego cheese and cured meats, as it brings out the wine’s dark fruit and creamy notes effortlessly.

Altos Ibericos Rioja Crianza

The Altos Ibericos Rioja Crianza is a smooth, modern expression of Tempranillo from Familia Torres’ first foray into Rioja. This wine offers bright red fruit, juicy tannins, and a round, elegant mouthfeel. The light oak aging adds subtle notes of clove, green peppercorn, and toasted bread without overpowering the fruit.

Extremely Balanced and approachable, and layered enough to linger. Awarded an 88 score by Wine Spectator, this makes one of the best Tempranillo wines of all time.Perfect with grilled lamb chops, roasted vegetables, or a creamy mushroom pasta. Also shines alongside Spanish tapas like jamón ibérico or patatas bravas.

Baron De Ley Reserva Rioja

This Reserva Tempranillo opens with earthy, spicy plum and red berry aromas that feel grounded and beautifully balanced. On the palate, it’s rich yet composed; layering ripe berry, cassis, dark chocolate, and a touch of brown sugar. The finish is smooth and subtle, leaving behind warmth and depth without overwhelming the senses.

Pair this Tempranillo wine with slow-cooked short ribs, roasted pork shoulder, or aged cheddar. It also plays well with dark chocolate desserts for a cozy, indulgent finish.

De Andres Sisters Milenrama Reserva Rioja Doca Spain

This Tempranillo pours a deep burgundy red and opens with a beautifully layered nose. Here you can taste fresh red fruits, warm spices, hints of tobacco, and a touch of dried fig all in perfect harmony. On the palate, it’s velvety and smooth, with supple tannins that glide effortlessly and a long, lingering finish that leaves you craving another sip. Elegant yet grounded, this is Tempranillo at its most refined making it one of the best Tempranillo wines.

This Tempranillo is a natural match for classic Spanish fare: roast lamb, grilled chorizo, or slow-cooked beef stew. Its smooth tannins and earthy spice also pair beautifully with mushroom risotto, Manchego cheese, or smoky grilled vegetables. For a simple weeknight win, try it with charcuterie and crusty bread.

Final Sip

Year after year, Tempranillo continues to impress with its depth and diversity, from the bold structure of a Rioja Gran Reserva to the bright vibrancy of a Ribera del Duero. Whether you're just beginning your journey into Spanish wines or have been collecting for years, these top Tempranillo selections offer exceptional quality, distinctive character, and remarkable value.

As you sip, consider pairing it with aged Manchego, grilled lamb, or a simple tapas spread. Tempranillo elevates the moment without ever overpowering it. Ready to try the best Tempranillos for yourself? Shop Tempranillo collection at Arlington wine and liquor!