Cune Imperial Reserva is a rioja ‘Reserva’, which means that the wine must have some time aging in oak and futher ageing in the bottle.but not as long as a Gran Reserva. Although the label states ‘Tempranillo’, this wine is in fact a blend of Tempranillo, Mazuela and Graciano. The grapes used for Cune Imperial Reserva originate from vines owned by the winery and also other estates found in the La Rioja Alta. Is the £23 Reserva much better than the £9 Crianza?

Tasting notes:  A deep, ruby red colour. Initially some plum and strawberry aromas. Secendary aromas (from wine-making) of vanilla, cedar, smoke and charred wood. Tertiary (from ageing) aromas of wet wood, forest floor and mushrooms. Dry. High acidity (best with food). High alcohol level (14%). Medium body. Medium tannins. Flavour intensity was pronounced. Complex. Long finish. Outstanding rioja.

Region of Origin – Rioja
Wine Colour – Red
Price – £22.53
Where do I get it from? Decantalo
Current Vintage – 2016
Producer – CVNE
Grape – Tempranillo, Mazuela, Graciano
Country – Spain

Verdict – Outstanding wine but pricey.

Food matching – would go really well with steak.