Tempranillo Day

Tempranillo Day is observed on the second Thursday of November each year. The day celebrates Tempranillo, a dark-skinned grape variety closely associated with Spain and Portugal. Its name comes from temprano, the Spanish word for “early,” because the grapes tend to ripen earlier than many other varieties.

History of Tempranillo Day

Tempranillo Day was established in 2011 by the Tempranillo Advocates, Producers and Amigos Society, commonly known as TAPAS. The organization created the observance to introduce more people to Tempranillo wines and highlight the grape’s history, regional styles, and food-pairing possibilities.

Tempranillo has been cultivated on the Iberian Peninsula for centuries. It is especially important in Spanish wine regions such as Rioja and Ribera del Duero, as well as in Portugal, where it is known by names including Tinta Roriz and Aragonez.

The grape can produce many styles of wine, from fresh and fruit-forward varieties to complex wines aged in oak. The second Thursday of November was selected to give restaurants, retailers, wineries, and wine enthusiasts an opportunity to organize tastings and educational events.

Interesting Facts About Tempranillo Day

• Tempranillo is one of the most widely planted red wine grapes in Spain.
• The grape is known by several regional names, including Tinto Fino, Tinta del País, Tinta Roriz, and Aragonez.
• Common flavor notes include cherry, plum, strawberry, dried fruit, tobacco, leather, and spices.
• Oak aging can add flavors such as vanilla, cedar, coconut, and smoke.
• Tempranillo is often blended with grapes such as Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo.
• The variety is grown outside the Iberian Peninsula in countries including the United States, Argentina, Australia, and Mexico.
• Tempranillo wines can pair well with roasted vegetables, tomato-based dishes, cheeses, grilled meats, and traditional Spanish cuisine.

How to Take Part in Tempranillo Day

Celebrate Tempranillo Day by learning about the grape and comparing wines from different regions. Visit a winery, attend a guided tasting, or prepare a meal that complements the wine’s fruit and spice flavors. Alcohol-free participation can include exploring the history of Spanish winemaking, cooking regional dishes, or learning how grapes are grown and processed. Anyone choosing to drink alcohol should do so responsibly and follow local age and alcohol laws.

When Is Tempranillo Day in 2026?

Tempranillo Day is observed on the second Thursday of November each year.

Observations