Contino Reserva 2021

Contino, owned by CVNE, was a pioneer of single-estate Rioja, drawing all its fruit from Finca San Rafael in the municipality of Laguardia, in Rioja Alavesa. This Reserva is a blend led by Tempranillo with Graciano, Mazuelo and a little Garnacha, each adding structure, acidity or aromatic detail. The estate sits on sandy loam and clay soils with abundant stones, which drain well and reflect heat, while the dry, hot summers and cool nights of the area concentrate the fruit and hold acidity. The wine ages eighteen months in French and American oak, which softens the tannins through slow oxygen exchange and adds vanilla, spice and the savoury complexity of a classic Rioja Reserva. The colour is a deep cherry red. The nose is layered, showing blackberry and black plum with red berries, vanilla, dried herbs and leather. The palate is full and structured, with ripe dark fruit, fine-grained tannins and a long, savoury finish that reflects both the estate and the long barrel age. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour ahead. It is a fine partner for roast lamb and game.