Contino, Reserva, Rioja, Spain 2017

Dark cherry, mushroom and wood spices on top of cherry can and dark cherry liqueur. After two years of ageing in American and French oak, the tannins are fine-grained in texture. Sweet spiced prunes are balanced by great acidity, followed by a long finish.

Dark cherry, mushroom and wood spices on top of cherry can and dark cherry liqueur. After two years of ageing in American and French oak, the tannins are fine-grained in texture. Sweet spiced prunes are balanced by great acidity, followed by a long finish.

A spin-off project from CVNE, Contino was a pioneer in making wines exclusively from its surrounding 62ha vineyards, rather than sourcing from partner growers. With Rioja now switched on to the fashion for terroir, Contino’s wines are still among the smartest on the high street. The Reserva 2017 is typically deep and harmonious, with glossy black fruit and polished but savoury tannins.