The Ten Best Spanish Red Wines: A Beginner’s Guide

Spanish red wines get a lot of press for being good values, but shopping in the Spanish wine aisle can be as daunting if you aren’t sure what grows where within the world of Spanish wines.

Many of Spain’s best red wines are labeled with the name of the wine appellation, rarely by grape variety. At its most simplistic, Spain can be divided into three “bands” for red grape varieties and wines. The Tempranillo grape variety excels in wines from central and northern Spain, Garnacha (Tinta) in wines from northeastern Spain and Monastrell in southeastern Spanish wines.

If you’ve ever felt completely overwhelmed while browsing a Spanish wine section, knowing just a few key wine names will help keep your shopping trip focused and ensure that you have the perfect wine to drink at a moment’s notice.

Perhaps the most famous of all Spanish red wines, Rioja Gran Reserva is the pinnacle of the Rioja appellation. Aged for a total of five years before release, these wines are usually based on the Tempranillo grape. Rioja Gran Reservas have savory characteristics of leather and spice and exemplify the effect wood-aging has on wine.

2. Vinos de Pago

Vinos de Pago is a designation is awarded to single estates of particular distinction. As of May 2024, there are 25 estates within this category. While most lie within existing appellations, some do not; but all offer quality wines with superior reputations.

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3. Priorat

Catalonia’s Priorat appellation is one of two wine regions (Rioja is the other) given Spain’s top regional designation of DOCa (Qualified Designation of Origin). Largely based on Garnacha Tinta and Cariñena (also referred to as Samsó in the region), these are rich, dense and powerful red wines.

4. Ribera del Duero

Just to the southwest of Rioja, the Ribera del Duero appellation also crafts top-notch red wines from Tempranillo. These are intense, structured wines suitable for ageing.

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5. Monsant

The Montsant appellation is adjacent to Priorat and also focuses on red blends of Garnacha Tinta and Cariñena. This area is known for having old vines and while very similar in nature to the wines of Priorat, are often offered at value prices.

6. Toro

Toro is another of Spain’s Tempranillo appellations and is known for deeply structured, tannic red wines. Recent investment has made this area one to watch.  

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7. Jumilla

Jumilla is Spain’s best-known appellation for the Monastrell grape variety. These are ripe, juicy and crowd-pleasing red wines at terrific price points.

8. Valdepeñas

The centrally located Castilla-La Mancha is Spain’s largest winegrowing area. Though vast amounts of grapes are grown for brandy production here, it also a rugged frontier of experimentation. DO Valdepeñas is particularly well-known for quality red wines from Tempranillo.

9. Rioja Crianza

While waiting for Rioja Gran Reservas to age, the region’s Crianza level is a fantastic “Tuesday” wine. Wine made under this designation is mandated to age for just two years (including one year in oak). These are easy-drinking, delightful wines of great value.

10. Bierzo

Bierzo is lesser-known than some of the other Spanish red wine regions listed here but is an appellation worth seeking out. Primarily made from the Mencía grape—which is reminiscent of Pinot Noir—these are interesting, earthy reds that pair nicely with roasted meats.

Spain’s reds are generally powerful, expressive wines that offer way more than just value. They also express terroir in a way that really puts the feel of this largely hot and dry country into the glass. Close your eyes while you sip and instantly be transported to this dynamic and unique wine country.