Rioja was the first Spanish wine region to obtain DO status in 1925.
Rioja gained DOCa status in 1991, 66 years after it gained DO status.
DO = Designation of Origen (Denominación de Origen).
A number of quality standards must be met for an appellation to gain DO status, including the use of authorised grape varieties, production levels, winemaking methods, and aging regimen.
DOCa = Qualified Designation of Origen (Denominación de Origen Calificada)
This category represents the highest level for a wine appellation in Spain. The region must have had DO status for a minimum of 10 years. Wine must be produced and bottled within the region, and wines must cost at least double that of the national average for DO wines. Rioja
Rioja was the first Spanish wine region to obtain DO status in 1925.
Rioja gained DOCa status in 1991, 66 years after it gained DO status.
DO = Designation of Origen (Denominación de Origen).
A number of quality standards must be met for an appellation to gain DO status, including the use of authorised grape varieties, production levels, winemaking methods, and aging regimen.
DOCa = Qualified Designation of Origen (Denominación de Origen Calificada)
This category represents the highest level for a wine appellation in Spain. The region must have had DO status for a minimum of 10 years. Wine must be produced and bottled within the region, and wines must cost at least double that of the national average for DO wines.