The 2000 Imperial Gran Reserva is sourced from the oldest bush vines and undergoes 36 months aging in barrel (60% French) before another 60 months aging in bottle. It has a very opulent, luscious bouquet with macerated dark cherries, kirsch, eau-de-vie and candied orange peel. The palate is full-bodied and velvety smooth and sensual in texture. There are layers of dark cherries, blueberry and creme de cassis that lead to a very sweet, tangy finish that risks being cloying in quantity. Fortunately, it avoids that and you can wallow in its unadulterated decadence. Drink now-2030. C.V.N.E. needs absolutely no introduction. It is seen as a bastion of traditional Rioja, and older vintages are revered (even though I myself found some of them rather enervated when tasting in London in 2009). The company owns Contino, which is run independently, as well as Vina Real. Importer: Christopher Cannan. Europvin, www.europvin.com

This expressive red is round yet graceful, delivering cherry, dried berry, tobacco, orange peel and spice flavors in a plump texture, shored up by light, firm tannins. Generous yet balanced, in the traditional style. Drink now through 2015. 8,000 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add