Fine & Rare Alma de Contador Rioja 2020 (OWC6)

"A new project of Contador that, according to Benjamin Romeo, took a Bordeaux approach of blending vineyards at three different altitudes. The blend is mainly tempranillo and some garnacha. Right after pouring, there is still some sweet plushness from the oak, but this peters out and turns to incense and sandalwood with time in the glass. Then come aromas of blueberry concentrate, balsamic purple fruit, hot stones, lavender and iodine. There’s a high level of ripeness and concentration on the palate, with purple and blue fruit that renders a brooding, almost pulpy feel. But the fresh acidity keeps it going, delivering a nice contrast to the weight and extraction. Long, dense and tight, but silky, too. Embryonic at this stage, but shows potential. Just slightly potent at the end. Will be released in 2023. Drink from 2025." - 94/100 James Suckling

"Sour plums and baked cherries on the nose with spiced vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, leather and strawberries. Sour on the palate too, sharp and direct with a tangy, metallic edge to the red berry fruit. Almost too severe in its purity, thrilling and racy, but not yet expanding to give weight and definition. Needs time but it has the lively, very perfumed and nuanced red fruit and a lingering edge of caramelised toast which gives a different element but it almost goes from start to finish without stopping for breath. Bright and energetic. A new wine to the Place de Bordeaux this year made by Bodega Contador. Winemaker and director Benjamin Romeo Hilera." - 92/100 Decanter