2010 Vina Real Gran Reserva
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Tasting notes
I was waiting to compare the 2010 Vina Real Gran Reserva with the Imperial Gran Reserva from that same vintage, as the comparison promised to be fascinating. This red blend from the Alavesa part of Rioja produced in its own winery is 95% Tempranillo and the rest Graciano; it fermented in stainless steel and matured in oak barrel for two years. The wine shows superb balance and harmony, with very subtle aromas of spices and flowers. It is one of those noses that make you go back to the wine over and over again, as it developed subtle nuances every time you smelled it. The palate feels a bit light compared with the Contino, which has more clout. I was going back and forth and at the end, I believe the three have a very similar quality level; what's best is that each has its own style and personality. 20,000 bottles produced. Aug 2016, www.robertparker.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
(fermented in stainless steel tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation and two years of aging in a combination of French and American oak barrels; aged in bottle for three years before release) Deep, vivid red. Spicy, highly perfumed red currant, cherry and candied rose scents, along with suggestions of vanilla and woodsmoke that build in the glass. Sweet, concentrated and penetrating, offering palate-staining, smoke-tinged cherry and red berry flavors given spine by a core of juicy acidity. Very smooth and seamless in character; tannins play a supporting role in an impressively long, sappy, red-fruit-driven finish. May 2017, www.vinous.com, Drink: 2022-2035
About the producer
CVNE, or Compañía Vinicola del Norte de España (the Northern Spanish Wine Company), is one of Rioja’s leading names. With its various brands – Cune, Viña Real, Contino and Imperial – CVNE produces both large volumes and high quality, with its Imperial Gran Reserva one of the region’s finest wines.