Founded in 1973, Viñedos del Contino were at the forefront of establishing the “château” concept in the Rioja region – that is, making wines only from estate-grown fruit – and are typically regarded as the second single estate in Rioja (after Remelluri). Their 62ha of vineyards are situated within a meander in the River Ebro in Rioja Alavesa, the smallest and highest elevation of Rioja’s three sub-regions. Viña del Olivo is a single-vineyard wine, made from 60-year-old vines. The ancient, gnarly olive tree standing next to the 6-ha vineyard gives the wine its name. Tempranillo-dominant, this blend also has a healthy portion of Graciano and Mazuelo, bringing freshness and spicy perfume. Aged in 49% new oak, a mix of primarily French and some American, for 14 months, Viña del Olivo shows the modern yet still classical face of Rioja. The 2020 vintage impresses with its poise, purity, and perfume. It is brilliantly fresh with a fine tannin framework and seamless oak. It is undoubtedly embryonic now but promises many years of drinking pleasure ahead of it. Just delicious!
