Rioja celebrates a century of designation of origin with a dazzling event in New York

 

The renowned wines of the Qualified Denomination of Origin (DOCa) Rioja commemorated their centenary with an elegant reception held last night in the vibrant neighborhood of Chelsea, New York.

 

The evening offered attendees the exclusive opportunity to taste a selection of fifteen exquisite red and white wines, representative of the excellence and diversity that characterize the Rioja wine region. The tasting was accompanied by a masterful presentation by Inigo Tapiador, Marketing and Communications Director of DOCa Rioja, who shared the stage with representatives of the prestigious Robb Report magazine, a leading publication in the luxury sector.

 

Tapiador, who arrived in the New York metropolis from a successful stage of the same commemorative tour in Hong Kong and ShanghaiHe underscored the momentous significance of this centenary. "Rioja is the only Spanish designation of origin to have reached this milestone," he emphasized, highlighting the importance of this anniversary for strengthening its position in the competitive and dynamic US market.

 

 

The United States has established itself as the third largest export market for Rioja wines.

 

 

For its part, Jeff JensenRobb Report's wine specialist, Jensen, captivated the audience by pointing out that the "spectacular" wines on offer not only celebrated a century of formal history but embodied a much deeper heritage. "They are a fundamental part of Spain's history, with generations and families dedicated to this culture," Jensen explained, highlighting the historical roots of viticulture on the Iberian Peninsula, which date back to the Roman era.

 

The United States has established itself as the third market in terms of export volume for Rioja wines, and even more significantly, as the second in terms of value, surpassed only by the United KingdomThis figure reflects the growing appreciation for high-end Rioja wines in the US market.

 

While the global wine sector is undergoing constant transformation, with a growing trend towards white wine consumption to the detriment of red wine and a slight overall decrease in consumption since 2021 influenced by healthier lifestyles, Rioja has managed to defy this trend in the American marketAccording to Tapiador, value sales in the United States experienced a notable 17% increase in 2024 compared to the previous year. This growth is attributed to the greater appreciation of premium wines, intrinsically linked to haute cuisine and special occasions.

 

Regarding the ongoing uncertainty generated by the potential imposition of tariffs on the European wine sector, Tapiador expressed his concern. However, he noted that some importers have opted to bring forward their purchases, taking advantage of the temporary suspension of tariffs decreed by the administration. Donald Trump, in the event of its future implementation.

 

Victor Fuentes, CEO of the Barón de Ley Group, who also attended the commemorative event, shared his company's strategy in response to this tariff threat. Rather than passing the entire cost increase on to the end consumer, they are negotiating with major US importers to share the impact of the tariff equally, as long as it does not exceed 10%.

 

Fuentes also acknowledged the growing demand for wines with 0% or low alcohol content, both in United States As in other markets, however, he expressed reservations about joining this trend, citing the technical difficulties and the challenge of altering the very essence of wine.

 

Rioja wines, along with Catalan cava, are distinguished as the most affordable Spanish wines in wine shops and restaurants in the United States. While they still lag behind the tradition and roots of French and Italian wines in the American market, their excellent value for money makes them an attractive option, competing with wines from other regions such as Argentina, New Zealand and PortugalThe New York event served as a powerful reminder of the rich history, exceptional quality, and promising future of Rioja wines on the international stage.