Corona Blanco Semidulce 1984

Wine: Corona Blanco Semidulce 1984
Winery: CVNE - Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España
Appellation: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: Viura, Garnacha Blanca, Malvasía
ABV: 12%

Winemaking
Initial fermentation in stainless steel tanks under temperature control. Aged in 225-liter American oak barrels for 6 to 8 months. It rested for a minimum of 6 months in the bottle prior to its commercial release.

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Old gold color with orange and golden highlights. Clean, with very thick tears.

 

Nose: A complete surprise—powerful and possessing immense personality. A subtle syrupy note weaves together dried orange peel, dried apricots, toffee, and stone fruit. No negative signs of reduction. The ensemble is enveloped by nuances of smoked white pepper, boletus (dried shiitake), and a faint glimpse of botrytis.

 

Palate: More off-dry than semi-sweet; notably less sugary than contemporary versions of Corona. It features "tons" of candied fruit (orange, quince, cherries in liqueur) and a potent vanilla note from the oak. However, citrus notes dominate—mandarin peel and nectarine—alongside a bitter edge reminiscent of bitter orange marmalade and whisky cake. While not excessively long, it boasts extraordinary acidity. It is "alive and kicking" despite being from a very minor vintage like 1984. Time is turning it into preserves and granting it dignity: the magic of the Viura grape. In 15 or 20 years, it will be a great wine. Not quite yet. More patience is required!

 

Personal Score: 90
Tasting Group Score: 92