You may think of big, bold oak-aged reds when you hear Rioja, but there is much more to this region. In fact, it is home to some incredible organic, biodynamic and natural wines. There are three major winemaking areas of Rioja:

The western Rioja Alta counts as the most famous sub-region with the greatest density of centuries-old wineries, known for its balanced, precise wines.

The dry and sunny area of Rioja Alavesa, an exciting region that straddles the Basque country and La Rioja, surprises with fresh styles of predominantly red wine.

In Rioja Oriental, the easternmost part of Rioja, you can find big, bold wines closely tied to the region’s rural culture.

While Rioja is rightfully famous for its red grape variety, Tempranillo, you would be missing out if you did not also try wines made from Garnacha (Grenache in France), Graciano and Mazelo (Carignan). On the whites, oak-friendly Viura is the main grape, but you’ll also find the rare Tempranillo Blanco, amongst others.