What Is Rioja Wine? Spain’s Most Celebrated Wine Country

When asking what is Rioja wine, one is not simply inquiring about a beverage—but about the legacy of a land that has been cultivating vines for over two millennia. Rioja wine is the lifeblood of northern Spain’s most iconic wine region, celebrated for its elegance, aging potential, and deep connection to both tradition and terroir.

The Rioja country, nestled between the Sierra de Cantabria and the River Ebro, is officially divided into three subzones: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental. Each subregion contributes its own microclimate and personality to the wines, most of which are crafted primarily from Tempranillo, Spain’s flagship red grape. Depending on the aging process, Rioja wines are classified as Joven, Crianza, Reserva, or Gran Reserva, with each category offering a different expression of time, oak, and complexity.

This year, 2025, marks the 100th anniversary of the Rioja Designation of Origin (D.O.Ca)—a century of commitment to quality and authenticity. Rioja was the first region in Spain to receive the prestigious Denominación de Origen Calificada status, a title that honors both its heritage and its ongoing innovation. From noble reds to vibrant whites and fresh rosés, Rioja continues to captivate the palates of wine lovers across the world.

At Rooters, we bring you closer to the human stories behind each bottle. Our private Rioja wine tours offer a unique opportunity to meet the winemakers, walk among century-old vines, and taste wines that rarely leave the cellars. Whether you’re a curious traveler or a devoted collector, our tailor-made experiences in Rioja reveal the essence of this remarkable region.

Join us and celebrate 100 years of Rioja D.O.Ca with an encounter you’ll never forget. Explore our Rioja wine tours and let the land speak through its wines.