CVNE IMPERIAL GRAN RESERVA
RIOJA, SPAIN
WHY BUY: Four consecutive vintages of Imperial Gran Reserva (2009-2012) scoring up to 97 points? Folks, this vertical showcases the great CVNE at their absolute peak across more than a decade of excellence. And here's the most beautiful part: while other producers chase quick profits, CVNE still ages these wines at the winery for you, holding them back longer than virtually anyone else in Rioja until they're at their most gloriously and fully expressive. These Imperial bottles have been maturing in their century-old cellars for nearly 15 years, reaching that magical sweet spot where power meets elegance. And at around $100 per bottle, they represent one of the wine world's most reliable price-value relationships, especially when you consider how prices have soared elsewhere.
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING: Wine Enthusiast declared the 97-point 2011 "a fabulous gran reserva from a very good but lightly heralded vintage... A deep, pure palate shows near-perfect balance... Smooth, elegant and chocolaty on the finish, this delivers all one can ask for from Rioja.” At the Decanter World Wine Awards, the 2012 was honored with 96 points and the deep admiration of the judges, who wrote: "Glorious... charm on the nose... bright in the palate... definitely showing signs of its maturity, with softer tannins and refined leather notes. Long finish.”
OUR TASTING NOTES: These Imperial Gran Reservas deliver exactly what you want from mature Rioja: layers upon layers of complexity and depth that — crucially — have been earned through time, as opposed to cellar manipulation. The 2009 shows its 15 years beautifully: leather, tobacco, and dark fruit in perfect balance, with tannins that feel like silk. Move to the 2010 and you get more power, but with a refinement that only comes from proper cellaring. The 2011 might well be the star of the vertical. It’s a wine of gorgeous purity and near-perfect balance, with chocolate notes that linger long after you've taken your final sip. In the 2012, we found a wine of striking unity — mature but vibrant, with those telltale leather notes and softer tannins that signal perfect drinking time.
THE STORY: CVNE has been getting Rioja right since 1879, back when the Real de Asúa brothers founded what would become one of Spain's most reliable sources for premium wine. Five generations later, their descendants still run the company with the same philosophy: increase production while maintaining the quality that built their reputation. It might sound like a simple concept, but it’s proven to be maddeningly difficult to execute … and yet CVNE somehow has made it look effortless. Imperial Gran Reserva first appeared in the 1920s and quickly established itself as a Rioja classic. The genius lies in CVNE's patience; they only produce Imperial in vintages they classify as "excellent," then age it for two years in French and American oak followed by extended bottle aging in their century-old cellars. Where other producers tend to rush their wines to market, CVNE holds back, letting time work its subtle magic. After manual harvest and double selection, the grapes for the Gran Reservas undergo cold maceration followed by indigenous yeast fermentation, then spend two years aging in French and American oak barrels. And that’s all before a long stint of bottle aging.
FUN FACT: The first wine ever produced by CVNE was actually a mistake — not the wine, but the labeling. It was supposed to have borne the company's initials, but, because of a clerical error, the “V” was changed to a “U.” Thus was the “Cune" brand born.
WHAT TO PAIR THEM WITH: These mature Riojas all but demand to be matched up with an aged Manchego, some luscious, paper-thin slices jamón ibérico, and a herb-roasted rack of lamb with pan juices.
OUR GUARANTEE: As always, we only buy and source directly from the estate, so rest assured: your wines will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. So act now to secure these remarkable Riojas today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Fall 2025. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. The price reflected on your order form is subject to change after the order is placed in the event of a change in tariffs or taxes that are imposed by the U.S. government, or in the case of currency fluctuations of 10% or greater. Offer only valid in AZ, CA, FL, MD, NC, NJ, TX, and VA. This offer is valid for TWO WEEKS, or until sold out, and will expire on Sunday, July 6th, 2025.