Ojo de Liebre Grape

Ojo de Liebre is another name for the Tempranillo grape, which is one of Spain's most important and widely cultivated red grape varieties. The name "Ojo de Liebre" translates to "hare's eye," referencing the grape's round shape and dark color. However, this name is less commonly used compared to "Tempranillo," which is the more widely recognized term for this grape.

Tempranillo, or Ojo de Liebre, is the backbone of many of Spain's most famous wines, including those from the Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions. The grape is known for its thick skin and ability to produce wines with deep color, moderate acidity, and soft tannins. It typically ripens earlier than other Spanish varieties, which is reflected in its name "Tempranillo," derived from the Spanish word "temprano," meaning "early."

Wines made from Ojo de Liebre/Tempranillo are often characterized by flavors of red fruits such as cherry, plum, and strawberry, along with notes of leather, tobacco, and vanilla, especially when aged in oak. The grape's versatility allows it to produce a wide range of wine styles, from young and fruity to rich, complex, and long-lived wines that can age gracefully for many years.

Tempranillo is a key component in blends but is also celebrated as a single-varietal wine, showcasing the grape's unique ability to express the terroir of the regions where it is grown. Its adaptability and expressive character have made it a beloved grape not only in Spain but also in wine regions around the world.