Imperial 1970 Gran Reserva Magnum

Wine: Imperial 1970 Gran Reserva Magnum

Winery: Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España - CVNE (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 75% Tempranillo, 15% Graciano, 10% Mazuelo.
ABV: 13% 

Winemaking
The wine spent 12 months in vats to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilize before wood aging. It was subsequently matured for 36 months in semi-new 225-liter barriques (70% American oak, 30% French oak). Bottled in March 1975. Depending on the vintage, it rested between 36 and 60 months in the winery’s subterranean cellars (calados) prior to its commercial release in the late 1970s. 

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Garnet-ruby of medium depth, clean, and brilliant. It displays vivid garnet reflections and a distinct tile-red rim.

 

Nose: Surprising fruit intensity, characterized by successive layers of candied red fruit that remain at the forefront throughout the tasting: macerated plums, cherries in liqueur, seasoned sloe berries and sun-dried tomatoes. This is complemented by an array of candied fruits and bitter orange marmalade, with a subtle balsamic background of sage and mint. It possesses the quintessential elegance and roundness of a great Imperial, supported by a classic oxidative aging expression: English tobacco, aged leather, tung oil, and noble wood.

 

Palate: Medium-bodied, enveloping, subtle, and fresh. While earthy in character, it continuously gains body, releasing energy and "nerve". The tannins are incredibly supple—reminiscent of a soft quilt—over which reduced, spicy, and almost citric fruit unfolds. Everything is wrapped in a veil of creamy textures, caramel, and cocoa. Seamlessly integrated, compact, and flawless. The Magnum format suggests significant further cellaring potential, though it is currently in an exceptionally "sweet" spot for enjoyment.

 

Personal Score: 93
Tasting Group Score: 94