Wines Rioja Continho 935 Reserva Rioja 2015 - 2015

Viniou Reviews

Continho 935 Reserva Rioja 2015 is a Spanish red wine hailing from the celebrated Rioja DO in the region of La Rioja. This reserva is likely crafted predominantly from Tempranillo, the hallmark grape of Rioja, possibly blended with smaller percentages of Graciano, Mazuelo, and Garnacha, as is the local tradition. The 2015 vintage benefited from a generally favourable growing season, with moderate temperatures and well-timed rainfall, allowing grapes to ripen steadily. A Rioja Reserva must be aged for at least three years, with a minimum of one year in oak barrels, and the remaining time in the bottle before release. This extended maturation imparts complex notes of vanilla, leather, and spice upon a base of ripe red and black fruit, along with well-integrated tannins and a lingering, elegant finish.

La Rioja stands at the foot of the Cantabrian Mountains in northern Spain, benefiting from a combination of Atlantic, Mediterranean, and continental climates. This unique intersection yields marked seasonal contrasts, and the protection provided by the mountains ensures mild summers and a long, slow ripening period, ideal for the development of flavour and balance in the grapes. Soils vary between the sub-zones, from iron-rich clay to alluvial deposits and chalky limestone, each bringing their own character to the wines. Rioja’s long history of winemaking, dating back to Roman times and significantly influenced by Bordeaux after the 19th-century phylloxera crisis, has cemented its international reputation for ageworthy, oak-matured reds.

With its structured yet supple character, Continho 935 Reserva Rioja 2015 is a wonderful partner for food. Classic Spanish pairings include slow-cooked lamb, suckling pig, or chorizo stew, as the wine has enough depth to complement rich, savoury flavours. Mushroom-based dishes, hard sheep’s cheeses such as Manchego, or a selection of charcuterie would also be excellent. If you wish to explore regional cuisine, a lamb Rioja-style (cordero al chilindrón) or roasted piquillo peppers stuffed with minced beef would make memorable accompaniments.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine an hour before serving to allow its bouquet and palate to fully develop. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to appreciate its intricate aromatics and structure. Over the next 5-8 years, this Reserva will continue to evolve beautifully in your cellar.