Tempranillo
⏳ Drinking Window
2022 - 2026
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Grilled lamb chops, traditional Spanish paella, cured jamón Ibérico
✨ Technical Specifications
Cooper's Hawk's Tempranillo represents a compelling bridge between traditional Spanish viticulture and modern winemaking. Sourced from the historic, sun-drenched vineyards of Rioja, Spain—where Tempranillo has reigned supreme for centuries—this wine benefits from the region's unique clay-limestone soils and distinctive climate. The grape's name, derived from the Spanish 'temprano' meaning 'early,' refers to its characteristic early ripening. Historically, Rioja's winemaking style was heavily shaped by Bordeaux vintners who brought traditional oak-aging techniques to the region in the 19th century. Cooper's Hawk collaborates with local Spanish growers to select premium fruit, capturing Rioja's classic dusty tannins, bright red fruit notes, and subtle leather undertones, while maintaining the approachable, vibrant style that defines the Cooper's Hawk portfolio.
🍾 About the Producer
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants was established in 2005 by entrepreneur Tim McEnery in Orland Park, Illinois, combining an upscale casual dining concept with an artisanal winery and tasting room. Rather than farming single-estate vineyards, the operation functions as a large-scale modern négociant and custom-crush producer, sourcing premium grapes and must primarily from leading American viticultural areas across California, Washington, and Oregon, as well as select international origins. Centralized vinification, blending, and barrel maturation take place at its dedicated Midwestern production facility under Vice President of Winemaking Rob Warren. The portfolio embraces an approachable, crowd-pleasing cellar philosophy focused on clean varietal expression, balanced oak integration, and food-friendly structures. Among its hallmark bottlings are California-sourced expressions such as Unoaked Chardonnay, Lux Chardonnay, Viognier, and the crisp, aromatic Riesling Gewürztraminer blend, alongside a diverse suite of methode-charmat sparkling and dessert offerings.
🍇 Grapes
Tempranillo