Contino (Cune) Rioja Reserva 2020

94 points Luis Gutiérrez (Wine Advocate): "[$50 list] The 2020 Reserva was produced with grapes from different plots on the property that were picked early and, between that and the higher yields of the year, resulted in a wine with 13.77% alcohol, quite low for a very warm year. It is composed of 86% Tempranillo, 6% each Mazuelo and Graciano and 2% Garnacha. It fermented by plot in stainless steel and concrete vats and matured for 18 months in oak barrels, mostly French but with 5% of them American. It feels fresh and harmonious, with some developed aromas, a minty touch of freshness and a medium to full-bodied palate that calls for food. It has depth and precision and is hedonistic, a notch above the 2019 despite the challenges of the year. A triumph over the vintage. It was bottled in May 2023. Drink: 2024-2030. (2/29/24)"

93 points Joaquín Hidalgo (Vinous): "The 2020 Reserva is a blend of 86% Tempranillo, 6% Mazuelo, 6% Graciano and 2% Garnacha sourced from the Contino vineyard, nestled in the Ebro riverbend in Laserna, Laguardia area, Rioja. Aged for 18 months in oak barrels, it displays a garnet-red hue and offers intense aromas of strawberries, dried flowers and wild herbs with an oaky backdrop. The soil's gravelly character contributes to a concentrated and juicy palate, supported by fine-grained tannins. Dry and complex, the long-lasting finish recalls the fruit and herbal notes. This is a delightful and classic representation of Rioja. Drink: 2024-2034. (Apr 2024)"

93 points Tim Atkin, MW: "(13.77%). By far the dominant style at Contino in terms of sales, accounting for 90% of the bodega's output, this well-judged blend combines Tempranillo, 6% each of Graciano and Mazuelo and 2% of Garnacha. Aged in older French and 8% American oak, it's more refined and powerful than some recent releases, with some chalky freshness, good focus and precision, wild herb, plum and mulberry fruit and enough structure to age in bottle. 2024-31. (2024)"