The 2020 Contino Rioja Vina del Olivo is a red wine from the Rioja Alavesa sub-region in Spain, produced by Contino. This wine is primarily made from Tempranillo grapes, with a blend consisting of 69% Tempranillo, 23% Graciano, and 8% Mazuelo.
James Suckling awarded this wine an impressive 98 points, highlighting its "brilliant evolution" and "energy and brightness." He notes the wine's medium to full body, fantastic length, and structured tannins, comparing the experience to "eating a perfectly ripe grape al dente." Suckling suggests that the wine will benefit from an additional three to four years of aging.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate also gave the 2020 Vina del Olivo a high score of 95+ points. The review praises the wine's "youth and freshness," noting its lower alcohol content of 13.52%. The wine was harvested early yet achieved full ripeness, resulting in higher acidity and more freshness. The Advocate describes it as "very young and tender," with well-integrated oak after 14 months in barrels and two months in oak vats. The wine exhibits a fragrant, floral, and aromatic profile with fine tannins and a long, dry, chalky finish from the limestone soils. The review emphasizes this vintage as one of the finest, particularly appreciating the unique floral quality.
Wine Spectator awarded the wine 93 points, describing it as an elegant red with a "pure beam of creamed black cherry" and hints of star anise, violet, mocha, and fig cake. The wine is enticing and lightly mouthwatering, boasting fine, supple tannins and good focus. The expressive profile shifts from sweet to savory, ending with lingering notes of tar and loamy earth. Wine Spectator recommends enjoying this wine now through 2033.
In summary, the 2020 Contino Rioja Vina del Olivo is lauded for its freshness, structure, and aromatic complexity. With high praise from respected reviewers and a promising aging potential, this wine stands out as a distinguished offering from the Rioja Alavesa region.