CVNE : Contino Reserva 2018

An elegant and mineral Rioja wine

The estate

The history of CVNE or Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España began in 1879. This family winery was founded by two brothers in the Haro train station area of the Rioja region in Spain. The company's strategic location enabled them to successfully market the bodega's wines and facilitated the transport of wine barrels and bottling. Since then, the fifth generation has continued the drive forward the family legacy. The company has now become one of Spain's leading wine groups.

CVNE reigns over a vineyard of 545 hectares that spread over the exceptional terroirs of La Rioja Alta and La Rioja Alavesa.

The vineyard

Founded in 1973 by the owners of the CVNE bodega, Viñedos del Contino was the first bodega inspired by the Bordeaux-style "Château" model.

Contino Reserva by CVNE, the estate’s emblematic wine, is made from a rigorous selection of "micro-plots" that spread over 62 hectares in Rioja Alavesa. Each of these terroirs contribute to the signature style of this Rioja wine thanks to the uniqueness of the soils.

The vintage

The year 2018 began with a cool and particularly rainy winter. These unstable conditions at the beginning of the vegetative cycle, which did not impact the vineyard, preceded a mild summer. Despite the unfavourable weather conditions during the harvest, the grapes boasted a high quality.

Vinification and ageing

The hand-picked grapes are destemmed followed by a pre-fermentation cold maceration for 24 to 48 hours. Alcoholic fermentation then maceration, accompanied by pumping over, before racking. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation. Aged for two years in French (80%) and American (20%) oak barrels.

The blend

Tempranillo (86%)

Graciano (6%)

Mazuelo (6%)

Garnacha (2%).

CVNE’s Contino Reserva 2018: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose
The expressive and refreshing nose blends fruity, floral, balsamic and spicy fragrances.

Palate
The ample and structured palate exudes an alluring elegance and minerality. The finish is persistent, with a velvety feel and delicious mineral notes.