Rioja Imperial Gran Reserva, Compañia Vinicola del Norte de España (CVNE) 2017

very structured and gorgeous Rioja with blackberry, cherry, cedar and spice aromas and flavors. Hints of toasted oak underneath. Granite, too. Medium-bodied, yet the structure builds on the palate, giving superb length and power. Give it three to five years to come together, and beyond.”

Deep, shiny ruby in the glass, the nose is rich and ripe, full of black forest gateau, damson jam and roasted coffee bean. The palate is slick, with polished tannins, rich dark fruit and layers of sweet spice. Cinnamon, nutmeg and more coffee notes all come through, matched by the intense, sweet fruit. A polished, modern style of Rioja, seamless.