Tempranillo Wines

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Tempranillo is one of Spain’s most celebrated red grape varieties, renowned for its rich flavour, food-friendliness, and ability to age beautifully. From Rioja’s dusty, oak-aged classics to bold, fruit-driven Australian expressions, Tempranillo offers something for every red wine lover.

At The Wine Collective, we’ve curated a standout collection of Tempranillo wines online, ready to be delivered directly to your door. Whether you’re exploring new varietals or searching for the best Tempranillo wine to add to your cellar, our Tasting Panel has hand-picked bottles that showcase the full spectrum of what this remarkable grape can do.

What Does Tempranillo Taste Like?

Tempranillo wine typically features a medium to full body, with aromas and flavours of red cherry, plum, fig, and dried herbs. Depending on where it’s made and how it’s aged, you might also notice hints of leather, tobacco, spice, or vanilla.

Spanish Tempranillo from regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero is often aged in American oak, giving it that signature sweet spice and savoury edge. Meanwhile, Australian Tempranillo wines—especially from McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills—tend to be more fruit-forward and plush, while still retaining that distinct earthy character.

Is Tempranillo Similar to Shiraz?

While both are bold reds, Tempranillo and Shiraz offer different drinking experiences. Shiraz, especially from regions like the Barossa Valley, tends to be richer, heavier, and more peppery, with intense flavours of blackberry and plum. Tempranillo is generally more savoury and restrained, with moderate tannins and a smoother, more balanced finish.

If you enjoy Shiraz but are looking to branch out into something with a little more Old World flair, Tempranillo is a great varietal to explore.

Is Tempranillo Heavy or Light?

Tempranillo is generally considered medium to full-bodied, though it can vary depending on the winemaking style and region. Spanish Crianza wines are often lighter and more elegant, while Reserva and Gran Reserva styles—aged for longer in oak—tend to be richer and more complex. Australian versions often fall into the full-bodied category, with ripe fruit, robust tannins, and a warm finish.

What Food Goes Well with Tempranillo?

One of the reasons Tempranillo is so beloved is its incredible food-pairing versatility. Thanks to its acidity and tannin structure, it can hold its own alongside a range of dishes, from traditional Spanish fare to hearty Aussie favourites. Try pairing it with:

• Roast lamb or pork
• Chargrilled steak or barbecued meats
• Tapas, jamón ibérico, and manchego cheese
• Tomato-based pasta and pizza
• Smoky eggplant or roasted capsicum

If you’re planning a dinner party—or just a Friday night feast—Tempranillo is a go-to red that won’t let you down.

Where is Tempranillo Grown?

Tempranillo originates in Spain, where it’s the cornerstone of regions like Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Toro. Its name comes from the Spanish word temprano, meaning “early,” a nod to the grape’s tendency to ripen earlier than others.

In Australia, Tempranillo has found a home in regions like McLaren Vale, the Adelaide Hills, and Heathcote, where the warm days and cool nights mirror the climate of Northern Spain. These wines tend to be fuller and more fruit-forward, with bright acidity and soft spice. 

Discover the Best Tempranillo Wines

Whether you’re after a Spanish classic or a bold New World bottle, we have something to suit every taste and budget. Our range includes:

• Elegant and earthy Rioja
• Bold and juicy Australian Tempranillo wines
• Boutique producers from emerging regions like Argentina and Portugal

Explore our full selection of red wine to discover more styles you’ll love—or let our Personal Wine Advisors help you find the perfect bottle based on your preferences.