2014 CVNE "Cune Imperial" Gran Reserva Rioja
SKU #1525537
94 points
James Suckling
A fine-tuned and polished gran reserva with lots of finesse and linear character. Medium body. Refined and beautiful.
(7/2019)
94 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
There is a developed and subtle nose reminiscent of petrol (is it mineral?), hints of iodine and sweet spices. The palate is powerful and still a little tannic, as the wine was released even earlier because they skipped one vintage. Serious, austere, faithful to its character. (LG)
(10/2020)
94 points
Vinous
Shimmering ruby-red. An intensely perfumed nose displays cherry cola, cassis, licorice and smoky oak; floral and vanilla qualities emerge in the glass. Juicy, penetrating red and dark fruit flavors are given spine by a core of tangy acidity, and bitter chocolate, candied rose and spicecake nuances develop with air. Gently gripping tannins add shape to an impressively long, incisive finish that leaves more vanilla and cherry notes behind. Raised for 22 months in a combination of French and American oak barrels. (JR)
(4/2021)
93 points
Wine Spectator
This muscular red has a thick, dense texture and muscular tannins. Plum and currant flavors mingle with clove, cola, vanilla and baking spice notes. Comes on strong, but the orange peel acidity gives way to a gentle, floral finish. (TM)
(9/2020)
92 points
Wine Enthusiast
Rooty, reedy aromas of licorice and fennel blend with oak grain and spiced berry and cherry scents to form a welcoming nose. The palate on this gran reserva from a difficult year feels lean and linear, with raw acidity. Plum, currant and vanilla oak flavors turn dry, tight, snappy and a touch tart on the finish. (MS)
(4/2021)
K&L Notes
94 Points Tim Atkin MW "Classic CVNE, classic Imperial, this is a cuvée of Tempranillo with 10% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo, made to mature and develop further in bottle. The oak needs a little more time to integrate, but this is the latest in a superb line up of Gran Reservas from María Larrea: dense, rich and concentrated with vibrant acidity and the freshness and focus of a cooler year."
