Wine Savvy on August 23, 2013 1 Comment Wines in Spain are known for their extensive roots in tradition and quality. With six major types of wine coming from this particular region, wine connoisseurs are wise to know the difference as well as various storage and serving methods. Whether you prefer red wine, white wine or a rose wine, there are many produced and regulated in Spain. Spanish wine is regulated under a classification system known as the Denominación de Origen (DO). Originally created in 1932, this system is primarily used to regulate Spanish wines, but is also used for other local foods, including cheese, honey, olive oil. There are over 70 DOs in Spain that regulate wine quality across the entire country with two Denominaciones de Origen Calificadas (DOCa) indicating the highest quality of wines manufactured. You can find all types of wine – red, white and rose – containing the DOCa stamp of approval from Spain. 6 Common Types of Spanish Wine Here is a quick breakdown of the six most common types of Spanish wines. Vino de Pago / DO Pago Introduced in 2003, this wine classification is only applied to single-estate wines. This type of Spanish wine is considered one of the most valuable and exclusive wines available in the nation. One of the most important requirements for Vino de Pago, is that the vineyard can only use their own grapes for their wines. Vinos de Mesa (VDM) This type of Spanish wine lumps together the lighter table wines that come from local vineyards. There are two classifications of VDM. The first classification, called Vinos de la Tierra (VdlT), is the most regulated. The labels on this type of wine indicate the vintage year, where it was made, and what type of grapes were used. The second type of table wine, is simply called Vino de Mesa, or the Spanish translation for “table wine.” Unlike VdlT, these wines are not required to show the vintage year, where it was made, or the grapes used. Vino Joven This type of wine, appropriately named for the Spanish word “young,” is typically sold the same year or shortly after it’s made. This type of Spanish wine is named this because it has spent very little time wood aging. Crianza Much like Vino Joven, Crianza wines are quite young. In order to qualify as Crianza, red wine must be aged for a minimum of two years with at least six months in oak, whereas white wine must be aged for a minimum of one year with at least six months in oak. Reserva The next tier in the aging classification is Reserva. Vineyards usually reserve the best grapes for this style of wine. To qualify as Reserva, red wine must be aged for a minimum of three years with one year contained in oak. White wines must be aged for a minimum of two years with six months contained in oak. Gran Reserva This classification is a bit more complex. To qualify as Gran Reserva, red wines must be aged for a minimum of five years with eighteen months in oak and then another 36 months in a bottle. White wines must be aged for a minimum of four years with at least six months contained in oak. How to Store Spanish Wine Spanish wines are typically stored stored on a wine rack within a wine cellar or a temperature-regulated wine refrigerator. The goal of a proper wine cellar or wine fridge is not location but rather the ability to shield your vino from any harmful elements, such as heat. Tips for Serving Spanish Wine A quality bodega in Spain will serve wine directly from a wine cooler and it should feel cold to the touch; however, exceptionally cold wine does not make up for poor quality. Throughout Spain, many cheap wines are sold chilled to mask its low quality; do not make the same mistake at home. Serving your wines at the proper temperatures will allow the flavors and aromas to be adequately expressed. Wine from Spain is popular with many enthusiasts due to its impressive variety and ready availability. There are many Spanish wines available in a variety of price ranges to fit any budget. Purchase a wine cellar or cooler to properly store your lighter wines and also shield red wines from any heat, humidity or vibrations to preserve its flavor. Image Credit Recommended Reading: 5 Famous Wineries Around the World 4 Dirty Little Secrets About Regional Wines Chilean Wine – From Chardonnay to Cabernet
