"The Carmen Gran Reserva 2008 has a classic nose with hints of oak, some herbaceous character and menthol nuances. It offers aromas of tobacco, leather, balsamic and a hint of chalk. The medium-bodied palate reveals a powerful Gran Reserva, with intense flavors, good acidity and length. This wine is very different from the style of Benjamin's other wines, following instead a classic Rioja pattern of yesteryear. Bravo" (Wine Advocate 2013 - Robert Parker)
Features
Estate
Bodega Contador
Cuvée
Carmen Gran Reserva
Vintage
2008
Designation
Rioja
Region
Spain
Grape varieties
90% Tempranillo, 5% Garnacha, 3% Graciano, 2% Mazuelo
Terroirs
Mostly limestone and alluvial, at San Vicente de la Sonsierra and Briones
Viticulture
Very respectful and as natural as possible, with a biodynamic orientation
Harvest
Manual in small boxes
Winemaking
Destemming, fermentation in truncated wooden vats
Breeding
24 months in French oak barrels, then 36 months in bottle
Alcohol content
13%
Tasting & pairing
Eye
Intense cherry color
Nose
Powerful, fine and elegant, with notes of ripe fruit blended with woody notes such as cedar, vanilla and cocoa.
Mouth
Fresh, long and powerful
Serve
AT 16-18°C
Open
1 hour before
Drink before
2022
Production
4,000 bottles
Food and wine pairing
Enjoy with red meats, lamb, grilled meats...
Bodega Contador
Rioja
Expert opinion
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate
Rated (2013 guide) 95/100 (Extraordinary wine)
Domaine noté Recommended (Wine producer recommended by Robert Parker - The Wine Advocate)
About the wine:
The Carmen Gran Reserva 2008 has a classic nose with notes of American oak, a certain herbaceous character and mentholated nuances. It offers aromas of tobacco, leather, balsamic and a hint of chalk. The medium-bodied palate reveals a powerful Gran Reserva, with intense flavors, good acidity and length. This wine is very different from Benjamin's other wines, following a classic Rioja style of yesteryear. Well done!
Guide Penin
Rated 94/100
Customer reviews
Customer rating
4.5/5
out of 4 reviews
Note and review by M. SYLVAIN D. Published on 24/12/2020
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Note and review by M. DOMINIQUE PIERRE F. Published on 28/03/2020
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Note and review by M. BENJAMIN B. Published on 30/07/2018
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Note and review by M. ROMEO A. Published on 13/04/2018
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