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Rioja Featured on the Wine for Normal People Podcast with Special Series
Wine for Normal People, one of the most respected wine podcasts, recently released a three-part series on Rioja, diving deep into what makes our wines so special.
These episodes explore each of Rioja’s three sub-regions—Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental—giving listeners an inside look at the history, terroir, and incredible wines that come from each area.
We’re thrilled to have Spain’s finest be part of this conversation, highlighting why Rioja remains one of the most exciting wine regions in the world.
Three Episodes, Three Unique Rioja Stories
Host Elizabeth Schneider spoke with leading winemakers and industry experts to break down what makes each Rioja sub-region unique. If you love Rioja or just want to learn more about how place influences wine, these episodes are a must-listen!
More on the episodes:
🎙️ Episode 544: Rioja Alta – Featuring Guillermo de Aranzabal Bittner of La Rioja Alta S.A.
Rioja Alta is known for its high elevation vineyards, creating wines with elegance, bright acidity, and long aging potential.
Traditional winemaking techniques, including aging in American oak barrels, give Rioja Alta wines their classic vanilla and spice notes.
This sub-region is home to some of the oldest and most iconic wineries in Rioja.
🎙️ Episode 545: Rioja Alavesa – Featuring Tao Platón of Península Vinicultores
Rioja Alavesa is all about limestone soils and cooler temperatures, resulting in wines with intense aromatics, structure, and freshness.
This area is famous for smaller, family-run wineries that focus on innovation while respecting tradition.
Expect Tempranillo-driven wines with a perfect balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality.
🎙️ Episode 546: Rioja Oriental – Featuring Raquel Pérez Cuevas of Bodegas Ontañón
Rioja Oriental has a warmer climate, producing wines that are full-bodied, fruit-forward, and rich in texture.
This is the heartland of Garnacha (Grenache), a grape that thrives in Rioja Oriental’s Mediterranean influence.
Many producers here are embracing sustainability and organic farming, bringing a modern edge to Rioja winemaking.
ABout the series
These episodes show just how diverse and dynamic Rioja wines can be. Whether you prefer the elegance of Rioja Alta, the structure of Rioja Alavesa, or the bold flavors of Rioja Oriental, there’s a Rioja wine for every palate and occasion.
Listening to these conversations is like taking a guided tour of Rioja from the experts themselves—without leaving your home!
Try the Wines from the Podcast
Excited to taste the differences between these three Rioja regions? We offer a curated selection of wines from Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental. Whether you’re looking for a classic aged Tempranillo, a fresh and vibrant Garnacha, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.
Find a bottle near you and bring the experience to life with a bottle (or two) of Rioja!
Explore. Taste. Celebrate Spain’s Finest!
