Imperial Rioja Gran Reserva 2012 - Magnum

The C.V.N.E. Imperial Gran Reserva Rioja has long held a reputation as one of the finest Rioja's and is only produced in exceptional years. The Imperial name came after a special bottling for the English market, in a measure called 'Pinta Imperial' or 'Imperial Pint' - approximately half a litre. Grapes for Imperial always come from C.V.N.E's own vineyards in the Rioja Alta where the vines are on average 20+ years old. This is a beautifully elegant blend of Tempranillo (85%), Graciano (10%) and Mazuelo (5%). Deep ruby in colour with cherry notes. Great complexity and aromatic quality of compote fruit, liquorice stick alongside those from its ageing such as spicy and balsamic aromas. The palate is smooth and silky with well defined tannins and a long and pleasant aftertaste. Imperial's capacity to age is remarkable and over the years the wine acquires complexity and nuance. Vintage after vintage, Imperials style is consistent: elegant, balanced and delicate. C.V.N.E. has vintages of Imperial dating back to 1917.

Vintage:
The 2012 growing season lasted 172 days and overall it was marked by drought. However, rain falling at the end of September had a great effect, leading to a full and complete ripening process with the grapes therefore achieving better balance.

Winemaking:
The hand selected grapes, once in the winery were held in a refrigerated chamber for 24 hours. They were then subject to second manual selection on a selection table. To ensure the gentlest handling, the grapes were fed by gravity to French oak vats for the alcoholic fermentation. Once completed, the wine was then aged in French and American oak barrels for 24 months, followed by 36 months bottle ageing in the century-old cellars until final release.