After this you’ll find Crianza and Reserva, finishing with the most mature Gran Reserva. Expect a bit more fruit forward flavours with a Crianza, and as you move up the spectrum you’ll tend to find more depth and oak-aging, however that’s not to say Gran Reserva styles are ‘best’. Crianza’s can make for excellent every day wines, as they are highly quaffable, fruity and generally accessibly priced. Joven – literally translates as 'young'. This applies to the entry level bottles and often you’ll only see the words rioja on the label. Expect simple, inexpensive wines with little to no aging.

Reserva’s are preferred by some to the older Gran Reserva’s because they’re not quite as rich, and the oak can be a little more restrained. If you’re looking to cellar age your wine than the Gran Reserva’s are your best bet thanks to the more structured tannins you’ll find. As ever it just comes down to personal preference.