A rare release of Contino's Gran Reserva from their best parcels, beautifully stylish and rich
Stylish, bright ruby red and very intense in colour. Highly aromatic on the nose with hints of red and black autumn fruit aromas along with some toasted and spicy notes of sweet bourbon character. Full and meaty in the palate with great depth and a fine, long, velvety and complex finish.
In 1879 C.V.N.E was founded by Eusebio and Raimundo Real de Asua in Rioja. 140 years later C.V.N.E is still controlled by the descendants of the founders. With foundations dating from the 16th century, the 62h hectare estate is located in a bend in the River Ebro. Here, a particular microclimate gives a special character to the wine. The name Contino refers to the royal guard of 100 soldiers who continually 'de contino', guarded the king and his family. One of their members, Don Pedro de Samaniego, was rewarded for his loyalty with the property, now home to Contino. In 1973, Contino established the concept of the 'Bordeaux Chateau' in Rioja, creating the first single estate Rioja.
The selection from the best soils in the plots destined for the elaboration of Contino Resevra, production of Gran Reserva takes a step further in terms of acidity, concentration and ripeness. Notably the Tempranillo comes from stony soils close to the River Ebro, which facilitates slow ripening due to its humidity.
The grapes were harvested manually in 15kg boxes from estate parcels in Finca San Rafael. The grapes were picked at perfect ripeness, then destemmed and fermented at a controlled temperature between 26°c and 28°c in untreated concrete vats. Total maceration time was 15 to 20 days. Malolactic fermentation took place in the same concrete vats. After which the wine was racked to used American (30%) and French (70%) oak barrels. After three years in barrel, the wine was bottled and aged for another two years in C.V.N.E's underground cellars.
Works brilliantly with rich sauces and foie gras.
