Navarra
Navarra is a Denominación de Origen (DO) for wine in northern Spain, situated immediately east of Rioja and bordering the Basque Country. It is recognised for its diversity of wine styles, ranging from traditional rosés to modern reds and fresh whites.[1]
History
Viticulture in Navarra dates back to Roman times and expanded during the Middle Ages, when the region lay on the Camino de Santiago. Monasteries and trade links with France contributed to its prominence. In the twentieth century Navarra developed a reputation for rosé wines, but later embraced international grape varieties and modern winemaking techniques.[2][3]
Geography and climate
Navarra covers a broad zone between the Pyrenees and the Ebro Valley. The climate combines Atlantic, Continental, and Mediterranean influences, leading to significant variation across its five subzones: Valdizarbe, Tierra Estella, Ribera Alta, Ribera Baja, and Baja Montaña.[4] Soils range from limestone and clay to alluvial deposits, providing conditions suited to both red and white grapes.
Grape varieties
Traditionally the leading grape has been Garnacha, especially for rosé production. Since the late twentieth century, international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay have been widely planted. Native Spanish grapes, including Tempranillo and Viura, remain important, and the DO regulations authorise a wide mix of both indigenous and international varieties.[5]
Wine styles
Navarra produces red, white, and rosé wines. Rosado wines, traditionally made from Garnacha, are still a hallmark of the region. Red wines vary from youthful, fruit-driven expressions to oak-aged blends, often combining Tempranillo with Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. White wines include fresh styles from Viura and Chardonnay, as well as more complex barrel-fermented versions.[6]
Regulatory framework
Navarra received official DO recognition in 1933. The appellation is overseen by the Consejo Regulador, which defines authorised varieties, yields, and labelling regulations. The governing body also promotes Navarra wines domestically and abroad.[7]
See also
References
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, entry: Navarra. ISBN 978-0198705383.
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, Spain section. ISBN 978-1784724030.
- ↑ Stevenson, The Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia, 5th ed., DK, 2011. ISBN 978-0756686840.
- ↑ Ministerio de Agricultura, Pesca y Alimentación (MAPA), “Denominación de Origen Navarra”, https://www.mapa.gob.es
- ↑ Consejo Regulador DO Navarra, “Denominación de Origen Navarra”, https://www.navarrawine.com
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, Spain section. ISBN 978-1784724030.
- ↑ Consejo Regulador DO Navarra, “Denominación de Origen Navarra”, https://www.navarrawine.com