Bodega Contador, Riserva Benjamin Romeo La Liende Colección N.1 2015 (Tempranillo)

Bodega Contador, founded by renowned winemaker Benjamin Romeo, is one of Rioja’s most prestigious estates, known for its meticulous craftsmanship and highly sought-after wines. Romeo, formerly the winemaker at Artadi, gained international acclaim for his dedication to quality, producing wines that consistently earn top ratings. The La Liende Colección N.1 2015 is a limited-edition Reserva that showcases the depth, elegance, and ageing potential of Rioja’s signature grape, Tempranillo.

Sourced from old-vine Tempranillo plantings in Rioja, the grapes benefit from a mix of limestone, clay, and sandy soils, which provide both structure and complexity. The vineyards’ high altitude allows for slow ripening, preserving acidity and enhancing flavour concentration. The wine undergoes extended maceration to extract richness and depth, followed by long ageing in French oak barrels, adding layers of spice, vanilla, and refined tannins.

Appearance Deep garnet with a dark ruby core, showing slight brick hues at the rim that indicate its evolution. The wine moves gracefully in the glass, with slow, elegant legs that hint at its concentration and well-balanced structure. The clarity and depth of colour reflect the precision of winemaking and the careful oak ageing.

Aroma Complex and layered, with rich black cherry, ripe plum, and cassis at the forefront. Secondary notes of cedar, tobacco, and dark cocoa emerge from the oak, while subtle hints of dried herbs, truffle, and graphite add depth. A delicate touch of balsamic and dried violets gives the wine a refined aromatic profile, evolving beautifully as it breathes.

Taste Full-bodied and structured, with bold yet polished tannins supporting flavours of blackberry, dark cherry, and fig. The mid-palate unfolds with notes of liquorice, espresso, and black pepper, complemented by a subtle earthiness. The oak influence is well-integrated, adding warmth and hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and toasted cedar. A streak of minerality runs through the wine, enhancing its balance and elegance.

Finish Long and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, spice, and a touch of smoky oak. The acidity keeps the wine fresh and vibrant, while the velvety tannins ensure a smooth, polished finish. As the flavours evolve, hints of leather and dried fruit leave a lasting impression of sophistication and depth.

Food Pairing Grilled Iberian pork with rosemary and garlic enhances the wine’s savoury richness and spice, creating a bold yet balanced pairing. Aged Manchego cheese with quince paste highlights the wine’s dark fruit and oak complexity, providing a beautiful contrast between creamy and structured elements.