Inspired by Wine Spectator’s May 2025 cover story on Rioja, this post explores how wines from Spain’s most iconic region are showing up around St. Pete.
Why Rioja, Why Now?
While Rioja has long been a favorite of collectors and sommeliers, it’s now catching the eye of a new generation. From vibrant Crianza to deep Gran Reserva, these wines—primarily Tempranillo, but also including Garnacha and other varieties—offer a balance of tradition and innovation, often at a more accessible price point than their French or Napa counterparts.
A quick guide to Rioja’s aging classifications.
Rioja Styles: What to Look For
These labels are printed on Rioja wine labels and offer a quick clue to the wine’s style and structure. Spot them near the label or seal to know how long the wine’s been aged and what to expect in the glass.
- Generic – Young wines, aged 1-2 years
- Crianza – Aged at least 3 years, minimum 1 year in oak (6 months for whites)
- Reserva – Aged at least 3 years (2 years for whites), minimum 1 year in oak (6 months for whites) + 6 months in bottle.
- Gran Reserva – Aged at least 5 years (4 years for whites), minimum 2 years in oak (6 months for whites) + 2 years in bottle.
See more on Rioja aging here.
What’s On Now: 6 Riojas to Try in St. Pete
Curious what’s being served around town? These standout bottles are currently featured locally—some by the glass, others by the bottle. Selections rotate, so ask what’s open.
- Alegre Valgañón Rioja Tinto (2020)
CellarMasters Wine Bar and Bottle Shop
$22 bottle
- Marques de Murrieta Reserva (2020)
Pasadena Liquors & Fine Wines
$25 bottle
- Faustino Crianza Tempranillo
Bar Chinchilla
$9.50 by the glass / $38 bottle
- R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Reserva (2012)
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
$48 bottle
- Bodega Bideona Las Parcelas Tinto (2021)
bin6south
$60 bottle
- La Rioja Alta Viña Ardanza Reserva (2017)
Sauvignon Wine Locker
$22 by the glass / $109 bottle
Want to see how you can get this glass half off?
See our Happy Hours article for more
Looking for more? Mazzaro’s currently stocks nearly 15 different Rioja options.
Final Sip
- Explore the depth of Rioja: From a smooth Gran Reserva with a gourmet meal to a fresh Crianza at a casual bar, Rioja offers a range of flavors for any occasion.
- An aging system with structure: Rioja’s classifications offer built-in guidance for how each bottle might taste.
- St. Pete is ahead of the curve: As the world rediscovers Rioja, St. Pete’s best wine spots are already embracing it—if you know where to look.