Which region is Tempranillo-dominated blends with aging classifications such as Reserva and Gran Reserva?

• A. Rioja
• B. Bordeaux
• C. Tuscany
• D. Burgundy

Answer: (A)

Rioja in Spain is defined by Tempranillo-dominated blends that carry aging classifications such as Reserva and Gran Reserva. Tempranillo is the backbone of most red Riojas, often blended with Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano to add depth and complexity. The aging terms indicate how long the wine is aged before release: Reserva and Gran Reserva designate progressively longer periods of maturation, typically including time in oak and additional bottle aging, which tames tannins and develops flavors like vanilla, leather, and dried fruit. This combination of a Tempranillo-led style and formal aging classifications is characteristic of Rioja. Other regions—Bordeaux, Tuscany, Burgundy—center on different primary grapes and aging labeling, so they don’t match this Tempranillo-dominated, Reserva/Gran Reserva profile.