2018 is widely regarded as an outstanding vintage in Rioja with the Wine Advocate rating the vintage at 95 points, and Luis Gutierrez awarding this latest release of CVNE's flagship Imperial Gran Reserva 95+ points, which is his highest score awarded in recent memory. The only vintage he has rated more highly was the famed 1947, which was recently scored a perfect 100 points - a true testament to this wine's remarkable ability to age!  

Earlier this week i was lucky enough to taste the wine with 5th generation owner Victor Urriuta, and it showed magnificently. Already seriously delicious, with lovely sweet berry fruit, creamy, spicy wood and great mid-palate richness, but with the balance and poise to make old bones in the cellar - that is, if you can resist drinking it all now! Served alongside the 2004 in jeroboam - a vintage the estate feel bears many similar characteristics - it was a real pleasure to compare and contrast these two great vintages for one of Spain's most exciting fine wines.

Steeped in history, Imperial Gran Reserva was born of the incredible popularity of C.V.N.E.’s top quality wines that used to be sold in Imperial Pints. While it is no longer the case, the name has carried on as a brand name for the quality flagship wines of the estate. Imperial Gran Reserva is a wine of selection; made using fruit from a selection of the best vineyards in Rioja Alta, then a selection of the best fruit in the winery, and finally a selection of the best barrels to make the finished wine. The result has long been a Gran Reserva with a track record of great ageing capability, and in a vintage like 2018, the wine will offer great drinking for years to come at a fraction of the price of many of its qualitative peers.  
 
The 2018 harvest brought a return to traditional weather patterns, marked by a winter of heavy frosts, snowfall, and abundant rainfall. Spring remained cold and rainy, followed by a warm summer with moderate temperatures that allowed for optimal ripening of the grapes. These conditions were prevalent throughout Rioja Alta, including the Imperial vineyards, resulting in wines with slightly lower alcohol content, higher acidity, and a fresh, fruity profile. 
 
One of the best value fine wines in Spain, if not the entire world, there is no excuse for not making room in your cellar for a case or two!