I've heard of that when tires are pryed on a tight fit with irons or the brake pad has rubbed the tire.
I've never had anything but great sevice and fortune with Conti's.
Same tire you are holding came with our Santana and got 2200 miles out of it on the rear with th front looking brand new.
Switched to GP-4000 in a 25c F and R and have 2000 miles on the rear and it is getting close to replacement time.