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Red wine | Rioja, Spain
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The CVNE Imperial Reserva 2019 is a quintessential expression of Rioja Alta, crafted by one of Spain’s most historic and respected wineries, Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España (CVNE). Founded in 1879 in the heart of Haro, CVNE remains a benchmark for traditional Rioja winemaking, and the 'Imperial' label—named for its original bottling in imperial pint sizes for the British market—is reserved exclusively for the estate's finest vintages.
This 2019 Reserva is a masterful blend dominated by 85% Tempranillo, with the remaining 15% composed of Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo sourced from CVNE’s own vineyards in Villalba, Briones, and Torremontalbo. These plots, featuring vines aged over 40 years in calcareous clay soils, provide the foundation for the wine's remarkable depth and complexity. The winemaking process is uncompromising: after meticulous hand-sorting, the grapes undergo fermentation in oak vats, followed by 24 months of aging in a precise combination of 70% French and 30% American oak barrels, and an additional two years of bottle maturation before release.
The resulting wine is an elegant, full-bodied red that balances power with finesse. Upon pouring, it reveals a deep cherry garnet color. The nose is incredibly sophisticated, offering a layered bouquet of black cherries, ripe blackberries, and plums, beautifully complemented by the sweet, spicy undertones of high-quality oak—think vanilla, clove, and a hint of toasted cedar. On the palate, the wine is structured yet velvety; the tannins are refined and powdery, providing a polished mouthfeel that carries the concentrated fruit through to a long, complex finish. Its balanced acidity ensures it is already drinking beautifully, though it possesses the structure and pedigree to age gracefully for another 10–15 years.
This wine is a gastronomic delight, demanding culinary companionship to truly shine. Its natural structure makes it a classic partner for hearty, protein-rich dishes. It pairs spectacularly well with slow-roasted lamb, grilled ribeye steak, or game meats. For a more traditional Spanish experience, serve it alongside aged Manchego cheese or a rich mushroom risotto, where the wine’s earthy undertones can mirror the umami of the dish. Whether you are building a cellar or looking for the perfect centerpiece for a celebratory dinner, the CVNE Imperial Reserva 2019 offers an unmatched glimpse into the storied history and refined future of Rioja.