Crianza
/kɾiˈanθa/ (Castilian Spanish), /kɾiˈansa/ (Latin American and seseo Spanish)
spanish-wine, aging, classification, oak, regulation, rioja, ribera-del-duero, quality-tier, labeling, red-wine, white-wine•Last updated January 11, 2026
In Spanish wine classification, 'Crianza' is a legally defined aging category indicating that a wine has been matured for a minimum period in oak barrels and in bottle before release—typically at least 24 months for reds (with 12 months in oak) and around 18 months for many whites and rosés. It represents a mid-tier level of aging and style between young wines (Joven/Roble) and more extended categories such as Reserva and Gran Reserva.
Examples
- A label reading 'Rioja Crianza 2020' indicates a red Rioja that has undergone at least 24 months of aging, including a minimum of 12 months in oak barrels, offering medium body with red fruit, vanilla, and gentle spice.
- A 'Ribera del Duero Crianza 2019' must also meet at least 24 months of total aging with at least 12 months in oak, typically showing darker fruit, firmer tannins, and noticeable but balanced oak influence.
- A 'Rioja Blanco Crianza' made mainly from Viura has been aged for roughly 18 months (with a defined minimum time in oak), resulting in a white wine with citrus and stone-fruit flavors layered with subtle oak, creaminess, and nutty notes.