A major Rioja producer, once among the highest-grossing in the region, is forced to sell all assets due to bankruptcy. Accusations of wrongdoing are being made.
One of the largest producer associations exits key decision-making bodies of the DOCa, citing a neglect of quality and the underrepresentation of smaller producers. What does this mean for the future of Rioja wines?
The family-owned Spanish winery Artadi is a low-intervention winery that has left the DOCa Rioja behind them. Their approach has led them into the global spotlight. Peter Douglas and Alexandra Wrann report.
More polyphenols. Less wax. A mutation discovered in a clone of Tempranillo suggests that some old vines can adapt to higher temperatures, reports Barnaby Eales.
The dispute over the Basque part of Rioja, the "Rioja Alavesa", continues following the Basque regional government approval of the DO "Arabako Mahastiak - Viñedos de Álava". The Basques have a strong argument: higher quality standards.
The Rioja classification system has tradition and determines marketing. Ever cheaper Reservas, however, are causing criticism and fueling doubts about the traditional model. David Schwarzwälder reports.
Tradition demands the participation of individuals who are dedicated to preserving it. For the Trentino winegrowers’ cooperative Mezzacorona, this involves safeguarding the indigenous grape varieties Teroldego and Marzemino, showcasing their qualities both as monovarietal wines and in blends.
