Weather's Role in Shaping Rioja Wine Over Time

Did you know that the weather can greatly affect how your favorite wine tastes? Let's talk about Rioja wine in Spain. Scientists looked at how regional climate changes from 1993 to 2017 influenced the production, quality, and chemical composition of Rioja wine. They used data from the Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) Rioja and the Marqués de Riscal winery, along with weather and satellite information.The researchers found that hotter weather led to wines with higher alcohol content and pH levels, but lower acidity. This is because grapes ripen earlier and have less leaf cover. May's weather, influenced by something called the Eastern Atlantic (EA) mode, played a big role in predicting the harvest. Interestingly, spring weather might be connected to larger climate patterns too. So, next time you enjoy a glass of Rioja, remember that the weather has a lot to do with what you're tasting!