Cune Imperial Reserva 2020

CVNE has worked from the Barrio de la Estación in Haro, in Rioja Alta, since 1879, and Imperial Reserva remains one of its benchmark wines. The fruit comes from vineyards over 40 years old planted on poor sandy and limestone soils, a low-fertility combination that restricts vigour and concentrates the small Tempranillo berries, with Graciano adding acidity and colour and Mazuelo lending structure. Rioja Alta sits at altitude with a cooler, partly Atlantic-influenced climate, so the diurnal range preserves freshness through ripening. The wine is fermented and then aged 24 months in a mix of French and American oak, followed by a further year in bottle before release. The long barrel ageing allows slow oxygen exchange through the staves, softening the tannins and drawing out vanilla, clove and toasted-oak character, while American oak contributes the sweeter spice typical of traditional Rioja. The colour is deep ruby with garnet at the rim. The nose carries red berries, plum, leather and tobacco over a savoury, earthy base, and the palate is medium to full bodied with fine-grained tannins and a long finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting an hour ahead. It suits roast lamb and aged Spanish cheeses.