The 2001 Imperial Gran Reserva has a more complex, better defined nose than the 2000, with black cherries, spice and Seville orange marmalade. The palate is medium-bodied, with fine tannins cloaked in sweet dark cherry, bitter orange and strawberry fruit. It is lighter on its feet than the 2000, with less persistence, yet it shows greater harmony and tension. This is a fabulous Gran Reserva with enormous weight and dimension. Drink now-2035. C.V.N.E. needs absolutely no introduction. It is seen as a bastion of traditional Rioja, and older vintages are revered (even though I myself found some of them rather enervated when tasting in London in 2009). The company owns Contino, which is run independently, as well as Vina Real. Importer: Christopher Cannan. Europvin, www.europvin.com

Alluring aromas of spice, cedar and tobacco carry through on the palate in this supple, graceful red. Shows dried cherry, orange peel, vanilla and mineral flavors with light, firm tannins and racy acidity. Balanced and focused, in the traditional style. Drink now through 2018. 8,000 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add