2017 CVNE Contino Rioja Blanco [JS94][V92][D91] WINE

Producer: Cune (CVNE) 
Region: Rioja, Spain  
Varietal: 90% Viura, 10% Garnacha Blanca 
Year: 2017 

James Suckling, 94 Points 

“Full-bodied, layered and beautiful, with intensity and energy that gives the wine lemon-rind and stone undertones. 50 per cent in barrel and 50 per cent stainless. 85 per cent viura and the rest white garnacha. This is a secret project. Very exciting. Stay tuned.” 

Vinous, 92 Points 

“Limpid yellow.  Vibrant Anjou pear and tangerine aromas show very good clarity and pick up suggestions of buttered toast, honey and chamomile with air.  Juicy and broad on the palate, offering ripe citrus and orchard fruit flavors that slowly tighten up and take on a floral nuance with aeration.  A vanilla flourish sweetens the finish, which hangs on with strong, spicy tenacity.”  

Decanter, 91 Points 

“This is Jorge Navascués’ first vintage in charge, taking over from long-time head winemaker Jésus de Madrazo. This is a delicious unoaked blend of Viura and Garnacha Blanca, showing super clarity and ripeness of tart green apple fruit, with tension from the lemon sherbet acidity. Will age well. Classy and classic.” 

Winemaker Notes: 

“With Contino Blanco, we want to return to the traditional Rioja whites with ageing potential, balance and freshness. A wine that is not overly woody with a predominantly floral and fruity aroma combined with structure and character provided by the barrel tannins and fat from the concrete egg tank.” 

Alcohol: 13.5% 

*Price and availability in store may vary. Vintage date may differ from pictured.