Contino Gran Reserva 2017

The 2017 Gran Reserva is based on 82% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, and the rest Mazuelo and Garnacha that comes from a selection of the best parcels on the estate. It has a deeper plum hue to go with a brilliantly complex nose of ripe plums, smoked tobacco, incense, and tobacco, with a subtle earthy, chocolaty undertone. Aged two years in small barrels, it’s medium to full-bodied, has a plush, layered mouthfeel, plenty of underlying tannins, and a great, great finish. This beauty builds nicely with time in the glass and is a riveting Rioja to enjoy over the coming 15-20 years. Maturity: 2024-2044. Score – 95. (jebdunnuck.com, Aug. 22, 2024)