Rioja. The New Classics

Three decades ago, the New Rioja Movement triggered the most dramatic revolution since the 19th century in this traditional area. Starting with the 1991 harvest, and spurred by the excellent 1994 to 1996 vintages, a group of new wineries overturned Rioja’s venerable hierarchy and overnight became the new quality leaders. They brought renewed attention to the vineyards, new oak aging, and also higher prices. Fifteen years later, and following dramatic changes in Rioja’s regulations, another generation is focusing on single vineyards and terroirs, showing a new side of this region. In this seminar we will survey these changes and taste some of the top wines that have emerged.