Rioja Report 2026: Rosado and clarete: A sleeping giant
Expect great things – and a variety of hues – from Rioja's pinks. An evolving category, at the crossroads of modernity and tradition.
The fast-evolving rosé wine offering from Rioja shows such an interesting, multifaceted side of the region, deeply rooted in tradition while also nodding to modern trends.
However, most producers still seem to approach the category tentatively, as if to do so would require them to choose between classicism or hipster cool.
They shouldn’t worry: the fact is that Rioja’s pink-hued tradition is inherently fashionable now.
We definitely want to see a bigger rosado/clarete lineup in our annual tasting next year!
Among those that bravely stepped forward in 2026 were the delicious, characterful examples highlighted below.
Rosados and Claretes: Highlights from the 2026 Report
Full score table coming soon
More from the report
Explore the full Rioja Report 2026
Our comprehensive analysis across styles and categories, plus profiles of stand-out producers.
The changing face of classic Rioja
Rioja Report 2026: Genérico but not generic – variations on style
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Hacienda López de Haro, Classica Gran Reserva Rosado, Rioja Alta, Spain, 2016

This is deep in colour, much closer to a light red than a simple rosé, given its serious structure, ripe tannins and juicy, rich red...
2016
Northern SpainSpain
Hacienda López de HaroRioja
Don Sancho de Londoño, Labura Rosado Reserva, Rioja Alta, Spain 2020

Coupled with expressive almond and marzipan aromas, a clear oxidative character on the nose is reminiscent of Sherry, and stems from a few of the...
2020
Northern SpainSpain
Don Sancho de LondoñoRioja
Bodegas Muga, Flor de Muga Rosado, Rioja, Spain 2025

Very pale in colour yet surprisingly concentrated for a wine of such light hue, delivering lots of delicate red berries and an ample palate with...
2025
Northern SpainSpain
Bodegas MugaRioja
Alonso & Pedrajo, Suañé Rosado Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2021

A blend of 50% Viura and 20% Sauvignon Blanc with about 30% of Garnacha red, white and grey, sourced from old vines in four sites...
2021
Northern SpainSpain
Alonso & PedrajoRioja

Ines is Decanter’s regional editor for Spain, Portugal and South America. Born and raised in Lisbon, Portugal, she grew up chasing her grandfather among his vines in Ribatejo and thus her love for all things wine began. After completing her Masters Degree in Architecture, Ines worked as a project manager while writing about wine and doing cellar consulting on the side. After moving to London in 2015, she decided to dedicate herself fully to the wine industry and joined the sommelier team at Michelin-starred Spring, Somerset House. Stints at Noble Rot and The Laughing Heart followed, while completing her WSET Diploma in Wines and Spirits. Her work as a judge and writer eventually became her full time commitment and she joined Decanter in 2019 as wine database editor.