Contino Rioja Gran Reserva 2014

“Deep violet. Primary black and blue fruit, potpourri, baking spice and vanilla qualities on the highly perfumed nose; a smoky mineral flourish adds urgency. Appealingly sweet, oak-spiced boysenberry, cassis and cherry cola flavors spread out steadily on the palate and show fine definition and back-end thrust. Closes impressively long and smooth, with rounded tannins contributing shape and gentle grip. Drinking window: 2023-2033. 94 points

CVNE’s single-vineyard project has been one of Rioja’s best sources from modern (but not too modern) wines since it was launched in 1973. These are impeccably made wines from fruit grown in a 62-acre vineyard in Rioja Alavesa, on an especially blessed curve of the Ebro River that affords the vine a variety of expositions. Compared to the CVNE bottlings, these wines are definitely richer and more forward in style, but they still retain the signature balance and focus that marks the parent company’s wines.”

Josh Raynolds, Vinous (04/21)