2012 La Cueva del Contador
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Tasting notes
The 2012 La Cueva del Contador is a mini-Contador (at a more approachable price), also a blend of Tempranillo with some Garnacha, fermented in oak vat without the addition of yeasts, and aged19 months in new barriques. The nose is very floral, open and exuberant, with hints of violets, dark plums, Morello cherries and spices, and it does not feel oaky at all. The palate is elegant, medium-bodied, with refined tannins, very good balance and persistence. A great showing for La Cueva. Bravo! I think this is the wine from their portfolio where you get more quality for money. It's the one I buy. 6,900 bottles were produced.
Critic scores
Average Score
Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
(all tempranillo; aged for 18 months in new French oak): Bright violet color. Sexy, highly perfumed aromas of blackberry, cassis, smoky minerals, pipe tobacco and vanilla. Ripe and densely packed but lively as well, offering deep dark berry and bitter cherry flavors, a sexy floral pastille quality and fine-grained, slowly building tannins. Sweet and penetrating Rioja with strong finishing grip and lingering notes of candied cherry and blackcurrant.