2007 Imperial Gran Reserva
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Tasting notes
Mid crimson. Gamey and evolved with good balance and some real vigour. Dry finish. Lots of potential. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo. Scented. Fragrant, rich and round. Layers and complexity and great gorgeousness. (JR)
Brilliant ruby-red. Complex, highly perfumed scents of red fruit preserves, vanilla, woodsmoke and sandalwood, with a sexy floral quality in the background. Quite concentrated for the vintage, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors firmed by a spine of minerality. Closes smooth, broad and spicy, with outstanding focus and fine-grained tannins. While one could enjoy this wine immensely right now, my guess is that it has at least a good decade-plus of life ahead of it.
The 2007 Imperial Gran Reserva is again a great wine in the making. Red fruit and plenty of spices (nutmeg), the palate shows great acidity and abundant tannins that need resolving with time in bottle. Great tension and nerve. I think it will take some time to be released, which is good as it will require some patience. Drink 2016-2021. CVNE seems to have improved its basic range of wines in the last few years, which is very good news, as they seem to be readily available and with attractive prices. The Imperial Gran Reserva is back at the helm of quality. Imported by Europvin USA, Van Nuys, CA; www.europvin.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.