Cropped from a challenging year, the 2013 Cune Gran Reserva is the classical blend of 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo, and it matured in barrique for 24 months followed by 36 months in bottle before being released. They didn't make an Imperial Gran Reserva or even Reserva in 2013, so the best grapes from the challenging 2013 vintage went to this Gran Reserva. It's from a lighter year and perhaps had a softer vinification and a shorter élevage, delivering a gentler Gran Reserva with more fruit. It has an herbal twist that led us to discuss the 1975 Vi?a Real Gran Reserva, which has a really strong herbal strike. The palate is quite light and is medium-bodied, with mostly resolved tannins and a dry finish. 50,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in May 2016.

This polished red offers expressive flavors of cherry, cedar, clove and floral, displaying supple tannins and citrusy acidity. Lively and fresh, with good stuffing. Drink now through 2023. 4,000 cases made, 400 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add