Rioja, located in northern Spain along the Ebro River, is the country’s most iconic wine region, known for its age-worthy red wines primarily made from the Tempranillo grape. The region has a unique classification system based on aging: Crianza wines must age at least two years (one in oak), Reserva wines at least three years (with a minimum of one in oak and six months in bottle), and Gran Reserva wines at least five years (two in oak and two in bottle), resulting in layered, complex wines with soft tannins and integrated flavors. Rioja also produces elegant whites from Viura and increasingly fresh, modern styles across all categories. Traditional producers like López de Heredia and La Rioja Alta remain benchmarks, while a new wave of winemakers brings innovation and terroir focus to the region. Rioja’s combination of history, structure, and approachability makes it a cornerstone of Spanish wine.