CVNE, Compañía Vinícola del Norte del España (the Northern Spanish Wine Company) was founded by two brothers in 1879. Today, CVNE represents a collection of wines from Rioja. Vinedos Contino was created by CVNE in 1973.

The blend for this Reserva is 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo and 5% Garnacha planted in vineyards near the town of Laguardia within Rioja, Alavesa. It is aged in used 40% American and 60% French Oak barrels for two years, and then spends an additional year in the bottle before release.

At this point in its evolution, this opaque-ruby wine flaunts perfumed aromas of concentrated black currants and crushed blackberries. Within are complex notes of saddle leather, fruitcake spices and sweet oak. Underlying this is a sensuous layer of creamy mocha and dark espresso. It is fascinating how each of these flavors merge together. The wine remains long on the palate with fine tannins. This well-made Reserva Rioja is deserving of some additional time in the bottle, as it is destined to show greatness over time.