Cune 2018 Imperial Gran Reserva Rioja

Imperial was first produced by CVNE in the 1920s and remains one of the house’s flagship Rioja wines. The Gran Reserva is reserved for exceptional vintages, using select parcels in Rioja Alta, including high-elevation vineyards around Villalba near the Sierra de Toloño.

The 2018 blend is 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo. A cool, relatively wet growing season created a long ripening cycle and late October harvest, producing a fresher, more structured style. The wine matured for 24 months in French and American oak, approximately 80% French and 20% American, followed by extended bottle ageing before release.

Tasting Notes
Colour: Deep red cherry with garnet highlights.
Nose: Blackberry, strawberry and cassis with violet, liquorice, graphite, roasted coffee, tobacco and clove.
Palate: Elegant and concentrated, with ripe dark fruit, fresh acidity and finely etched, chalky tannins.
Finish: Long and vibrant, with lingering fruit, balsamic herbs, cocoa and savoury spice.

Ideal Drinking Window: Now–2040