🏰news | features + short tasting note The 2016 Contador by Benjamin Romeo is a "super elegant and insinuating" Rioja masterpiece, considered a modern version of the outstanding 2001 vintage, offering a mosaic of complex flavors and remarkable aging potential. Though initially shy, the nose gradually reveals subtle aromas of 【violets, lilies, red cherries, aromatic herbs like thyme, rosemary, lavender, and fennel, along with blackberry and raspberry】. The palate is intense yet 【velvety, even satiny, with ultra-fine and elegant tannins, great purity of delineated flavors, full-bodied concentrated black fruit, tobacco, and spices】. It boasts a remarkable balance and a long, lingering, refined finish. 🍴 Chinese Cantonese food pairing This magnificent Rioja is excellent with rich red meat dishes. For Chinese cuisine, consider slow-cooked beef brisket in clay pot (瓦煲牛腩), roasted lamb rack with cumin (孜然羊架), or braised pigeon with soy sauce (豉油皇乳鴿). Western pairings include roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, game, traditional Spanish cuisine like slow-cooked oxtail or jamón ibérico, and aged cheeses. 🥂 fit for event suggestion A magnificent wine for a grand celebration, a serious wine tasting, or a special dinner where its elegance and complexity can be fully appreciated. It has excellent aging potential.