Bodega Contador 'Predicador' Tinto 2020

The best origin stories are stranger than fiction.

The Bodega Contador story starts in 1995 when Benjamin Romeo acquired a centuries-old cave beneath a castle in Rioja and started to make some wine.

After outgrowing his cave, he started making wine from his parents' garage, which is where he crafted the 2004 and 2005 vintages of Contador, both of which received an extraordinary 100 points in Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.

Thanks to these successes, Romeo was able to move out of the garage and build a state-of-the-art winery. From here, Romeo now separately vinifies grapes from 62 individual vineyard sites that he's steadily acquired over the past two decades.

One of those creations is Predicador, a moreish Tempranillo that smells of fruit and earth, but also of balsamic, menthol and wild herbs. It's a concentrated, mature, fresh and complex wine with minerality, subtle caramelised sugar notes, liquorice, spices and the scent of red roses. With 92% Tempranillo (plus 3% Garnacha, 3% Mazuelo and 2% Graciano), it is fantastic with red meats, casseroles and rice-based paella-style dishes.

We would probably keep Predicador all to ourselves if we could. It's one of our personal favourites. 

The name "Predicador," meaning "preacher" in Spanish, holds a special significance for this wine. It reflects the winemaker's passionate commitment to conveying the story and essence of the terroir through the medium of wine. In the same way a preacher passionately shares their message, this wine seeks to communicate the unique character and flavors of the region it hails from. Bodega Contador's 'Predicador' Tinto 2020 is an eloquent testament to the vineyard's history, the devotion of its winemakers, and the profound terroir of the area. It embodies the winemaker's dedication to sharing this message with wine enthusiasts, making each sip a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and a deep sense of place.

Tasting Note - Bodega Contador 'Predicador' Tinto 2020:

Appearance: In the glass, the Bodega Contador 'Predicador' Tinto 2020 showcases a deep, alluring crimson color, hinting at the depth and complexity within.

Aroma: On the nose, this Tinto entices with a complex bouquet, revealing layers of dark fruit, spices, and subtle nuances. Aromas of blackberries, black cherries, and plums intermingle with hints of vanilla, cedar, and a touch of tobacco leaf.

Taste: The palate is a captivating journey through the flavors of Spain, showcasing the depth of the 2020 vintage. Ripe dark fruit, including blackberries and currants, envelop the palate, delivering a harmonious and well-structured character. Velvety tannins and balanced acidity create a smooth and inviting mouthfeel.

Finish: The finish is a testament to the wine's Spanish heritage, leaving behind a lasting impression of dark fruit, spices, and a touch of mocha.

Food Pairing:

1. Patatas Bravas with Harissa (Wineology): Elevate your dining experience by pairing the Bodega Contador 'Predicador' Tinto 2020 with Wineology's patatas bravas, served with harissa. The wine's depth complements the dish's richness, creating a delightful combination.

2. Kingfish Crudo with Onion Jam (Wineology): Embrace the wine's versatility with kingfish crudo from Wineology, featuring onion jam. The Tinto's balanced acidity harmonizes with the dish's fresh seafood flavors, resulting in a memorable pairing.

Indulge in the Bodega Contador 'Predicador' Tinto 2020, a wine that celebrates Spain's winemaking heritage and the dynamic character of the 2020 vintage, while savoring the culinary offerings of Wineology.