The Tempranillo Advocates Producers and Amigo Society (TAPAS) is the advocate for the annual International Tempranillo Day which began in 2011. This year the International Tempranillo Day will be on Thursday, November 10.

According to the TAPAS website, “Tempranillo, indigenous to Spain and used in the great Rioja and Ribera del Duero wines, is planted in 500,000 acres of the world’s vineyards, making it the fourth most planted wine grape, and that would be enough to celebrate.”

Temrpanillo is considered to be one of the world’s noble grapes; however, it is indigenous to Spain. Tempranillo has a wide variety of synonyms including Tinto Fino.

Tempranillo wines can offer a ruby color and an aroma and taste of dark fruit. Fruits to look for include blackberries, cherries and blueberries. Also discover spice and oak notes. There may be hints of tobacco and tannins. Why not pair a Tempranillo wine with a hearty meal of beef or perhaps just enjoy a glass of Tempranillo with Spanish-style tapas.

There are numerous events to celebrate International Tempranillo Day. Since Tempranillo Day falls on a Thursday some of the events are taking place over the following weekend. For a list of events check out the TAPAS International Tempranillo Day website.

While enjoying a glass of Tempranillo, be sure to write and tweet using the hashtags #TempranilloDay or #Tempranillo.

Turkey, Sausage and Tempranillo Entrée

Terry Sullivan at Wine Trail Traveler created a yummy recipe for Crock-Pot Turkey, Sausage and Tempranillo, which you can view online.

Enjoy!

Kathy