Bodega Contador, Contador 2019 (Tempranillo)

Bodega Contador, founded by the legendary Benjamin Romeo, is one of Rioja’s most prestigious wineries, consistently producing wines that receive international acclaim. Contador 2019 is the estate’s flagship wine, a pure expression of Tempranillo that embodies the power, elegance, and complexity of the region’s finest vineyards. Known for meticulous vineyard selection and precise winemaking, this wine reflects Romeo’s commitment to crafting wines of exceptional depth and ageing potential.

Sourced from carefully chosen old-vine Tempranillo parcels across Rioja, the vineyards sit at high altitudes, benefiting from cooler nights that preserve acidity and freshness. The soils, a mix of limestone, clay, and sand, contribute to the wine’s structure and minerality. The grapes undergo long maceration for intense colour and tannin extraction, followed by extended ageing in 100% new French oak barrels, adding layers of spice, texture, and complexity.

Appearance Deep ruby with an opaque core and a vibrant garnet rim, showing immense concentration and youthfulness. The wine’s slow, elegant legs indicate its richness, full body, and long ageing potential.

Aroma Intensely complex and layered, with ripe black cherry, blackberry, and cassis at the forefront. Secondary aromas of cedar, tobacco, and cocoa emerge, complemented by notes of truffle, graphite, and liquorice. The oak influence is beautifully integrated, offering hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and a subtle toasted character. As the wine opens, delicate floral notes of violets and a touch of balsamic add further refinement.

Taste Full-bodied and structured, with powerful yet finely polished tannins supporting a dense core of dark fruit. Flavours of black plum, fig, and blueberry unfold, layered with spice, dark chocolate, and espresso. The mid-palate reveals a savoury earthiness, with hints of black pepper, leather, and crushed stone adding complexity. The acidity is vibrant, ensuring freshness and balance despite the wine’s intensity.

Finish Exceptionally long and evolving, with lingering dark fruit, spice, and a touch of smoky oak. The fine-grained tannins give the wine a seamless texture, while the final notes of mocha, dried herbs, and minerality provide depth and finesse. A wine of immense ageing potential, promising further evolution over the next two decades.

Food Pairing Dry-aged ribeye steak with black truffle butter enhances the wine’s bold structure and rich, savoury elements, creating an indulgent pairing. Aged Manchego with fig preserves highlights the wine’s fruit and spice, offering a balance of intensity and refinement.