Imperial 1981 Reserva

Wine: Imperial 1981 Reserva
Winery: CVNE - Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España (Haro, Rioja Alta)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo
ABV: 13% 

Winemaking:
The wine remained in tanks until the completion of malolactic fermentation before being moved to oak. It matured for a minimum of 36 months in semi-neutral 225-liter barrels (70% American oak, 30% French oak), undergoing various manual rackings each year. It rested for a minimum of 36 months in the winery’s underground cellars before its commercial release in the late 1980s. This lot was recorked in 2010. 

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Garnet-ruby with medium-high depth; interestingly, more extracted than the 1982 vintage, which is unusual. Brilliant and clean with pomegranate and orange reflections, showing no signs of sediment. Broad orange rim, well-contrasted against the meniscus.

 

Nose: As intense as it is detailed. Upon opening, it exudes an attractive note of sloes and red fruit liqueur, contrasting with the overall austerity of the ensemble: wood planks, wicker tools, hemp rope, and a powerful oak-driven backdrop of vanilla and caramelized sugar. It progresses steadily, shedding its initial sobriety to reveal an exceptionally elegant tertiary character. Fine spices, smoked pepper, roasted notes, tobacco threads, and luxurious woods emerge, alongside hints of marquetry and linseed oil. Tense and unwavering, it maintains a high frequency throughout. 

 

Palate: It leaves a sensation of great harmony. Medium-bodied and spicy, it possesses excellent acidity and an extraordinary degree of integration. It maintains a vivacious core of freshness while being polished like a gem. Highly appealing.

 

Commentary:
One of the finest CVNE Reservas tasted to date. It lacks for nothing and may still hold surprises in the coming years. While it is in a "sweet spot" for drinking right now, it can certainly continue to wait in the cellar. A flawless representation of the 1981 vintage.

 

Personal Score: 94
Tasting Group Average: 93