Down the Rabbit Hole with Rioja Wine

Tasting Together Season 4 Episode 1  – Rioja was one of Miroki’s first glimpses into what terroir meant in winemaking. After speaking with Clément Gallois, the Canadian Rioja DOCa representative, both her and André learn that the meaning of terroir has taken on a whole new meaning in recent years as the DOCa gave permission to list specific villages. This has provided wine enthusiasts the opportunity to really explore Rioja’s granularities. André was hoping to get a Rioja 101 and head out of the episode with newfound knowledge to grab some choice bottles – but it turns out the surface was barely scratched.

This episode drills down everything that makes up the world of Rioja wines. Get extra nerdy as they explore Rioja’s versatility as red wine (A Tempranillo blend vs 100% Graciano? So different!), understand how to read the labels when buying a Crianza or Reserva, and taste the full range of wines the region produces, including the beautiful and elusive whites that they wish were more readily available on the international market. The lineup of wines tasted were definitelly in the upper tier of quality from anywhere – but it has left both André and Miroki thirsty for more.

Learn more about rioja wine – https://riojawine.com/en-us/

You can follow Miroki on Instagram @9ouncesplease

You can follow André on Instagram @andrewinereview