Rioja Gran Reserva

Score

98

"Amber in colour, this is a beautiful interpretation of aged white Rioja with a really extended ageing period. A Viura-dominant blend sourced from dry-farmed and low-yielding, east-facing vines in Villalba, it is fermented in 300L and 500L barrels then aged for 60 months in used Rioja barrels and older, larger botas, and the wine is bottled without clarification. There is a wonderful sweetness from the oak which captivates but it is very fresh and lifted, even after all its time in barrel and bottle. Lemon curd, apple and baking spice create a luscious mouthfeel with a slightly waxy finish."

Score

94

"Spices, chocolate, vanilla and lots of vibrant, youthful plums, cherries and berries. A medium-bodied, very approachable Rioja with juicy fruit and fine tannins that make you want to drink a bottle. Such a pleasing, well-made and youthful gran reserva, Drink now or hold."

Score

93

"The 2018 Gran Reserva Cune is 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo from Rioja Alta, aged up to 24 months in American and French oak barrels. Aromas of plum and blackberry intermingle with herbal and oaky notes. Dry, creamy and chalky on the palate, it offers a fairly compact mouthfeel. This red wine presents a modern twist on the fruit-forward style, resembling more of a New World red than a classic Rioja"

Score

91

"A blend of mostly Tempranillo with Graciano and Mazuelo, the 2018 Cune Gran Reserva is a reflection of the market™s demand for more fruit, less oak. Freshness is paramount and present, with the tannins well-behaved and not in the way of the acidity. Refreshing layers of medium-bodied, ripe cherry benefits from 24 months in French and American oak and three years in bottle, coming together in a seamless whole that™s structured to go another 10-12 years."

Score

90

"A savory red, leading with smoke and espresso notes before a plushly textured mix of black cherry, Kalamata olive and black tea pushes through. Sinewy tannins firm the fresh, spiced finish. Tempranillo, Graciano and Mazuelo. Drink now through 2029. 4,000 cases made, 2,000 cases imported."