Country: Spain Region: Rioja Varietal: 100% Graciano Vintage: 2017 Colour: Red Style: Dry Producer: Viñedos del Contino Description: Contino Graciano is made from grapes harvested by hand and deposited in boxes at our 3.7-hectare San Gregorio Grande vineyard, planted in 1979 and 1989 (two areas). The Graciano grape is a variety usually used to make the classic Rioja wine coupages. But this wine gives it full prominence and demonstrates its magnificent elegance and ability to express itself.The proximity of the vineyards to the winery allows freshly harvested grapes to reach the winery in optimal condition and ferment in small tanks. Viñedos del Contino has many underground caves, dating from the 16th century, that are very humid and provide a constant environment and temperature throughout the year, making them ideal for aging wine. Manual selection in the vineyard and on the winery’s selection table to guarantee maximum quality. The main objective of this winemaking process is to preserve the characteristics of the grape variety. Alcoholic fermentation in 100-hectolitre French oak vats at a moderate temperature to ensure good colour extraction, followed by post-fermentation maceration. On 22 September, the wine is transferred to new French oak barrels (72% French and 28% American). It is in these tanks that malolactic fermentation takes place. The wine remains there for 16 months, followed by an ageing period of 6 months in pure concrete tanks. Tasting Note: Contino Graciano 2015 is a red wine with a complex nose and great aromatic intensity, with hints of red fruits, graphite mineral nuances, eucalyptus and mint balsamic notes and touches of fennel and white pepper. On the palate it is complex, broad and flavoursome, with an elegant and long mid-palate, and a fruity finish. Food Matches: Casseroles / Lamb / Smoked Fish / Soft Cheese