Wines

In 2013, a freak hailstorm struck the Contino estate and the golf ball sized hailstones diminished the crop by an incredible 90%. Winemaker Jesus Madrazo decided to persevere with whatever healthy fruit was left and, after rigorous berry-by-berry sorting, just 17 barrels (barricas) of wine were produced.What was salvaged yielded an excellent wine and is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and winemaking skill of Madrazo. It is a rich, layered and effortlessly balanced blend of 80% Tempranillo, 13% Graciano and 7% Garnacha aged for just shy of two years in French and American oak.

The 2013 Contino 17 Barricas is an exceptional wine from a challenging vintage, where meticulous selection and craftsmanship led to a wine of elegance and depth. Produced from old vine Tempranillo, with a touch of Graciano, it reflects the deep, complex fruit and refined tannins that are hallmarks of Viñedos del Contino's winemaking philosophy. The large format bottle of 1800cl is a celebration of the vintage's success, ideal for collectors and grand occasions. This wine boasts a deep ruby color with aromas of ripe dark fruits, cedar, and hints of spice. On the palate, it presents layers of blackberry, plum, and cherry, intermingled with notes of vanilla, leather, and a touch of minerality. The finish is long and persistent, with well-integrated tannins and a balance that speaks to the finesse of Rioja Alavesa. Not specified; however, the Contino 17 Barricas series is highly regarded among connoisseurs and collectors for its quality and exclusivity.

The Contino 17 Barricas is a highly limited and exclusive selection from Viñedos del Contino that showcases the exceptional characteristics of the vintage. Made only in select years when the grapes reach optimal quality, it represents the pinnacle of the winery's craft. With only 17 barrels (barricas) produced, this collection is a testament to the meticulous care and precision in winemaking, delivering distinctive and singular expressions of Rioja wines.

Contino is a renowned Rioja wine estate known for pioneering the concept of a single estate (château) in the Rioja region. This innovative approach has established Contino as a benchmark producer within the region, focusing on quality and terroir expression.