Contino Rioja Gran Reserva 2017 (Rioja, Spain) - [WA 94] [JS 94]

Contino Rioja Gran Reserva 2017
(Rioja, Spain) - [WA 94] [JS 94]


$80.00 $64.97 Save $15.03
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WA94 JS94
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The Vineyard:

Grapes from our own vineyards at Finca San Rafael. Selection of the best micro-plots of the estate. Plots with notable differences, not in terms of orientation, but in terms of soil characteristics. Always in search of the perfect combination of the vineyards, located in a privileged environment, Viñedos del Contino.

The Tempranillo grapes mainly come from stony soil located near the Ebro River, which allows for slower ripening phase due to its own humidity.

Winemaking:

Manual harvest in boxes of 15 kg. Double selection of grapes; in the vineyard as well as in the cellar at a selection table. After destemming, the grapes ferment in concrete vats at 26-28ºC, followed by maceration. The malolactic fermentation takes place in the same vats. The wine is then transferred to French oak barrels (mix of new and used) for the aging process for 24 months.

Vintage / Harvest description:

2017 was a difficult year in Rioja, marked by heavy frost on the night of the 27th of April. Fortunately, the San Rafael vineyards were not affected, and in fact, we consider that the quality of the wines made from this year’s harvest is exceptional. This was a cool year and with 7% lower rainfall than in 2016. Bud break began on the 15th March, flowering on the 20th May and the end of fruit set on the 14th June. Harvest began on 6th September with the Tempranillo del Olivo, the Graciano harvest took place two days later on 8th September, and the Mazuela harvest on 22nd September.

Tasting notes:

Contino Gran Reserva 2017 is, above all, an excellent and harmonious wine. Fragrant nose and rich aromas, among which black fruits stand out, as well as floral and balsamic aromas that give freshness. Perfectly balanced aromas with subtle spicy notes. On the palate it is silky, powerful and elegant, with great balance and integrated tannins. Harmonious and long finish. An excellent example of the personal style that defines Contino: elegance and balance.

Grape varieties: 82% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo and 3% Garnacha


Ratings & Reviews


94 Points - James Suckling:
" A fruity and juicy red with round tannins and savory fruit. Medium to full body and a creamy texture. Hints of caramel and meat to the dark fruit. 85% tempranillo, 10% graciano, 5% mazuelo and garnacha. Enjoyable now." (May 2022)

94 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
The Contino vineyards escaped the frost from 2017, and the 2017 Gran Reserva, from a warm and dry year, is a blend of 82% Tempranillo, 5% Mazuelo, 10% Graciano and 3% Garnacha, the selection of the best grapes from different plots in the estate. This is 100% from the new team and from a vintage they consider very good for their property, different than the majority of Rioja. The idea is to follow the long aging in oak to continue with the tradition and keeping the freshness and controlling the power from the place. This is hedonistic and flattering, spicy after maturing in French barrique for 24 months. They harvested earlier than ever, in early September, and the wine reached 13.52% and has very good freshness with a pH of 3.47. It's round and enjoyable, fresher than the last vintage I had tried.


91 Points - Wine Spectator:
" Presents hints of fresh earth and tobacco on the nose, which are a savory underpinning for the silky range of black plum and black cherry reduction, espresso and tar notes. Rich and focused, without being weighty, with balsamico acidity and fine-grained tannins. Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo and Grenache. Drink now through 2029. 2,540 cases made, 400 cases imported." - Alison Napjus (Feb 2029)