Rioja Oriental

Overview

Oriental is the largest Rioja sub covering the eastern part of the region, south of the Ebro River, and accounting for around 40% of the Rioja’s total output. In 2018 its name was changed from Rioja Baja to Rioja Oriental. Generally, Oriental has a warmer and drier climate than the other Rioja subs, vineyards are low altitude, and soils generally a mix of alluvial content, clay, and iron.

Key Grape Varieties

Historically, Oriental had large Garnacha plantings, which would add body to regional blends. Today, however, producers have started to really recognise and appreciate the quality of wine which old vine Garnacha from here can produce, and these are increasingly bottled varietal rather than blended.

Key Producers

We are not currently offering wine from Rioja Oriental but we will do in the future.