Wine: Imperial 1976 Gran ReservaWinery: 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%
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 the spring of 1981. 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 mid-1980s. The bottles are recorked every 20 years.
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 the spring of 1981. 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 mid-1980s. The bottles are recorked every 20 years.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Very clear and brilliant brownish-ruby of medium-low depth showing minimal distinction between the meniscus and the rim. It
displays reddish and amber glints with a distinct tile-red border.
Nose:
A compendium of high-quality reductive notes, showcasing immense
elegance and classicism. It initially evokes a hearth: smoke, charcoal,
sandalwood, peppercorns, and exotic woods, underpinned by a
balsamic-vegetal background (sage, bay leaf, mulberry leaf). At times,
it "cabernetea" (reminiscent of Cabernet) with aromas of candied black
fruit, licorice twists, and herbal infusions. With aeration, it gains
smoothness, unveiling vanillic oak, creamy textures, and candied nuances
that transition into traditional tertiary notes of saddle leather, faisandage, and wet earth. Solid and remarkably stable.
Palate: Shows strong similarities to the Viña Real '76.
Mature and creamy—almost chocolatey—packed with spices and elegant
toasted notes. It remains agile and never heavy thanks to its intense
acidity. The palate is filled with reduced, liqueur-like, and peppery
fruit, supported by fully melted, "fatty" tannins. A distinct Imperial
from a difficult vintage, showing no flaws and absolute integration. The
vintage's character is exceptionally present. Ready for immediate
enjoyment.
Personal Score: 93
Tasting Group Score: 92
Tasting Group Score: 92
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