Tempranillo
Red grape · Spain’s signature red, the grape of Rioja.
Unofficial study resource · not affiliated with or endorsed by WSET®In short
Medium body and tannin, with red fruit and leather, and, when oak-aged, clear vanilla and dill or coconut notes from American oak.
Where it grows
Rioja and Ribera del Duero in Spain, and Portugal, where it is called Tinta Roriz.
Food pairing
Lamb, cured ham, and roasted vegetables.
Why it matters for WSET
The main grape of Rioja. Its classic vanilla and coconut character comes from ageing in American oak.
Practise your grape knowledge
Grape varieties are core WSET material. Try free practice questions with explanations, then get the full bank and a wrong-answer notebook in the Eclavin app.
Download Eclavin on the App StoreFrequently asked questions
What is Tempranillo used for?
It is the main grape in Rioja and Ribera del Duero, Spain’s most famous red wines.
Why does Rioja taste of vanilla?
From ageing in American oak barrels, which give Tempranillo its signature vanilla and coconut notes.