Rioja: the Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin celebrates its first centenary
Rioja: the Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin celebrates its first centenary
100 years! The Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin (DOCa) celebrates its first 100 years this year, consolidating its position as the leading region in wine consumption in Spain and being the favorite wine of Spaniards, with a market share of 27.2%. Its history backs up the exceptional quality of its red wines in categories such as Crianza (aged for at least 2 years), Reserva (aged for at least 3 years), and Gran Reserva (aged for at least 5 years); red wines which have conquered palates over time – just like Rioja whites, rosés, and sparkling wines. In fact, Rioja is already the second Designation of Origin for white wines in Spain in terms of ranking on the market. Furthermore, the Designation of Origin is also a pioneer and leader in wine tourism. So much so that, with nearly 900,000 visits in 2023, the Rioja region has become the most visited wine tourism region in Spain.
But beyond breaking records at a national level, the Rioja label has crossed borders in these 100 years of history, becoming the most consumed Spanish wine abroad and positioning itself as a leading wine tourism destination at an international level. In total, more than 325 million bottles of Rioja were enjoyed in Spain and the rest of the world in 2023.
Without a doubt, the key to success in achieving all these milestones is the unique and unrivaled character that defines Rioja, as well as its guaranteed quality. Privileged conditions for growing grapes centuries ago made this the Spanish region for quality wines par excellence, characterized by great contrasts. Thus, over the region’s more than 100 kilometers of diversity, there are 144 municipalities with more than 600 wineries and almost 14,000 winegrowers that are part of the DOCa. The area also has the highest number of barrels in the world. These are all unique attributes that make Rioja special.
The exclusivity that defines this region can also be seen in the great number of options offered by the more than 200 wineries open to the public: unique experiences that share a zeal for feeling the land, experiencing the environment, and connecting with the local sensations while enjoying one of the best wines in the world. Leisurely visits to vineyards on horseback or on a Segway, seeing the region from above aboard a hot-air balloon, enjoying a yoga and mindfulness session in an open area at a winery, and treating oneself to a spa and wine therapy session at some of the luxury facilities owned by Rioja wineries are just a few of the one-of-a-kind options that can only be enjoyed here.
And we cannot forget about local gastronomy: Michelin-starred restaurants, traditional restaurants, restaurants at wineries, and a massive pinchos and tapas culture all await visitors with menus and proposals that are ideal for any taste. The culinary options are sure to allow you to enjoy and celebrate the Designation of Origin’s centenary as it deserves to be celebrated, with premium pairings that will delight all those who come to enjoy and toast Rioja in 2025.
The pioneering nature of the Rioja region has only grown and strengthened over time. Winemaking has always been (and continues to be) the driving force and hallmark of this area whose uniqueness and quality delights generations, opening the way to international markets for Spanish wine and strengthening the Spain brand.
The passion and talent of the new generations of winemakers and viticulturists when it comes to showcasing their terroir and their commitment to sustainability herald a new and interesting stage for the Designation of Origin – undoubtedly ensuring hundreds of more years for Rioja. Let us toast to the region’s good work and to the efforts of all those who have successfully brought this Designation of Origin to its 100th anniversary (and many more)!
Rioja
