C.V.N.E. – Rioja – Imperial Reserva

Overview:With Imperial, we strive to capture the essence of our soils and the meticulous care of our vineyards located in specific villages across Rioja Alta. The grapes we use for Imperial derive from our own vineyards in Villalba, Briones and Torremontalvo.

In Villalba, we have the small Remedio and Encinas estates, located at altitudes between 550 and 650 m, close to the Sierra de Toloo mountains and in a climate with a marked Atlantic and continental influence. These estates account for 12 of the 42 hectares owned by CVNE in the village.

Torrentalvo is home to our San Quilez and Pico de Aguila vineyards, located at an altitude of 450 m and with a somewhat more moderate climate than the plots in Villalba. This accounts for 30 of the total 70 hectares owned by CVNE in the village. In neighbouring Briones, Imperial takes up 10 hectares (house vineyard).

All these vineyards are older than 40 years. The main variety is Tempranillo. However, other Rioja varieties, such as Garnacha and Graciano, are found in these calcareous clay soils, poor in organic matter. The vines are low-yield, head-trained and primarily south-facing.

Tasting Notes: Plum and berry aromas are peppery and complex prior to a nicely layered palate with balancing acidity and depth. Dry oak lends notes of vanilla and cocoa powder to a flavor profile loaded with plum and berry fruit. A steady finish with vanilla oak notes holds onto juicy acidity that should allow this reserva from a fine year to show well through at least 2030.

Pairing: This Reserva is the perfect accompaniment to meat dishes, charcuterie, mature cheeses and slow-cooked stews.

Points:95, Tim Atkin

Format / ABV:750 ml / 13.5%

In certain circumstances, a specific vintage may not be available. If this is the case, a comparable vintage of the same wine will be substituted for online orders. If shopping in store, please check the bottle for the appropriate vintage. If you have a question about a specific vintage that is in stock, please email [email protected]