2010 Imperial Gran Reserva
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Tasting Notes
Characterising the 2010 Imperial Gran Reserva as "a classic among classics in a classic vintage", Gutiérrez praises its "very nicely integrated" oak and suggests that wines like this have spearheaded a revival in the market for traditional Rioja. First produced in 1920, Imperial Gran Reserva is a hand-harvested blend of Tempranillo (85%), Graciano (10%) and Mazuelo (5%), coming from the estate's finest and oldest vineyards in the area around Villalba in Rioja Alta. Over the course of three years, this classic Rioja was matured in both French and American oak barrels, before bottle-ageing for a further four years in CVNE's century-old cellars. 2010 was a superb vintage for Rioja. With favourable conditions throughout the growing season, 2010 was rated overall as a 95 point vintage by the Wine Advocate; the highest score awarded to a Rioja vintage by the website, placing it alongside the legendary 2004. Decanter Magazine called 2010 "an excellent vintage" and the Regulatory Board of Denominación de Origen Rioja concurred, rating it "excellent" (a ranking only awarded 15 times since 1925). Tim Atkin MW has also designated it five star status.
Critic Scores
Average Score
Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate
Wine Spectator
More reviews and scores
We're in for a treat with the 2010 Imperial Gran Reserva, a classic among classics in a classic vintage. It's very spicy and still slightly oaky, with ripe fruit without any excess; it is a serious, somehow Bordeaux-like, less-perfumed red. The palate shows that seriousness, with some dusty tannins and a dry finish. The texture is a little earthy, very good for food. This could be drunk now, but I'd give it some time in the bottle. The oak feels very nicely integrated, less noticeable than in warmer vintages like 2009. A very good vintage for this bottling. The category that was close to disappearing ten years ago seems to be alive and kicking with 50,000 bottles produced in 2010.
Dried cherry, plum compote, black olive and cola flavors are supported by firm tannins and balsamic acidity in this plump red. Energetic yet harmonious, in the traditional style. Drink now through 2025. Jun 2016, www.winespectator.com
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.