Ex Château: Top Rioja

Imperial is one of the big names of Spain. It is a true classic in Rioja and was first produced in the 1920s. Its name comes after a special bottling for the English market, in a measure called 'Pinta Imperial` (an Imperial pint which is approximately half a litre). CVNE remains one of the most reliable bodegas in Rioja, producing classy wines with very good ageing potential. Founded in 1879 in Haro by brothers Raimundo and Eusebio Real de Asúa, the Compañía del Vinícola del Norte España continues to remain in family ownership. All of the grapes (85% tempranillo, 10% graciano, 5% mazuelo) come from the Alta sub-district where the climate is slightly cooler, producing grapes with crisp acidity which is the backbone to the wines' ageing potential. This reserva has been aged for two years in American and French oak, then a further two in bottle before release. CVNE have released a limited number of bottles of their Imperial Gran Reserva 2015 exclusively for The Wine Society Members, currently lying in their cellars, which will be shipped to order in 2026. Drink this year to 2038. 14%

One of the great names, CVNE Imperial is one of the region's classiest Riojas. The 2007, mostly tempranillo with a small percentage of graciano and mazuelo, has impeccable balance with cedar and tobacco notes backed by velvety ripe tannins. CVNE have released a limited number of magnums of their Imperial Gran Reserva 2007 exclusively for The Wine Society Members, currently lying in their cellars, which will be shipped to order in 2026. Drink this year to 2034. 14.5%

Drink this year to 2034. 13.5%