At a glance

Producer

Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España (CVNE)

Region

Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo-dominant blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$80

Tasting profile

Deep ruby with garnet hues; aromas of dried cherry, leather, tobacco, cedar, and hints of vanilla and spices; mouthfeel is smooth with layered dark fruit and sweet oak

Evolution: Develops pronounced tertiary aromas including forest floor, truffle, and graphite over the next decade

At peak: Fine balance of mature fruit, complex earthiness, and elegant wood notes with a lingering finish

Structure

Acidity

Balanced medium-plus acidity supporting freshness

Tannins

Round and well-integrated refined tannins

Alcohol

13.5%-14.0%

Aging potential

20-30 years from vintage, suitable for extended cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2023 to 2043

Optimal window

2020 to 2046

Current status

Mature, excellent drinking window

Current condition

Approaching peak maturity with complex tertiary aromas emerging

2011 was a solid but not exceptional vintage in Rioja; CVNE’s Imperial Gran Reserva is crafted for long aging with traditional oak treatment and high-quality fruit selection, allowing peak drinking starting roughly 10 years post-vintage and lasting another 10-15 years.

Food pairing

Pairs exceptionally well with grilled lamb, roasted duck, aged Manchego cheese, and mushroom-based dishes due to its rich texture and balanced acidity.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (60 minutes) — Helps aerate the wine and soften tannins, allowing full aromatics and flavors to emerge

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

CVNE employs water conservation and integrated pest management; uses some renewable energy sources; modernized cellar reducing energy consumption; packaging includes recyclable materials

While not fully organic or biodynamic, CVNE practices sustainable viticulture including careful vineyard management and resource conservation, balancing tradition with modern environmental awareness. The moderately sustainable score reflects these ongoing efforts and room for improvement in certifications and carbon reduction.