Bodegas Contador Benjamin Romeo, "Carmen" Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain, 2008

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Overview of the Wine
Superstar Spanish wine producer Benjamin Romeo began making wine in his father's garage in 1996, ageing it in a mountain cave! He is now one of the world's most respected vintners. His vineyards located near San Vicente, in premium Rioja terroirs sheltered by the Sierre Cantabria, range in age from 40 to 100 years. Spread over 80 small parcels, they are mostly planted with the Tempranillo grape variety. Benjamin Romeo's wines are true masterpieces – subtle, delicate, mineral, elegant and distinguished.

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Grape/ Blend
90% tempranillo, 5% garnacha, 3% graciano, 2% mazuelo

Origin
Rioja, Spain 

Tasting Notes
In the 1960s, Charles de Gaulle discovered Drappier champagnes and this Pinot Noir-rich cuvée. It has been revamped in his honour. Only the first press juices are used and they are transported by gravity. Very little sulphur is used. The blend is carried out in stainless-steel vats to retain freshness. The nose is very refined and offers aromas of citrus fruit, apple and almond. On the palate, it has remarkable complexity, it is light and offers candied notes.

95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 
The 2008 Carmen Gran Reserva has a classic nose with notes of American oak, some herbaceous character (I mean it in a positive, fresh way) in the shape of some spearmint. It displays an array of notes of tobacco, cured meats, leather, balsamic herbs and a hint of chalk. The medium-bodied palate reveals a powerful Gran Reserva, with intense flavors, great acidity and length. This wine is very different in style to the rest of Benjamin's wines, following the patterns of the classical Riojas of yesteryear. Bravo! Drink 2014-2020.

Product size: 750ml