2004 Imperial, Gran Reserva, C.V.N.E., Rioja, Spain

A touch of dried tobacco leaf and mulled sloe berries and meatiness. Gorgeously sweet fruit on the palate. Quince and an earthiness and a very fine seam of vanilla with a wonderful just-tooled-saddle (not sweaty!) spice note on the finish. Gentle, the texture of chamois leather on the tongue. There is a remarkable freshness, and the mid-palate bursts into sweet sweet cherry just as you think it’s starting to segue into dry spices. Thrilling, almost haunting, with generous persistence. So balanced. Do not spit this wine.Drink 2013 - 2024Tamlyn Currin, JancisRobinson.com (November 2023)

The 2004 Imperial Gran Reserva is 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, and 5% Mazuelo aged in new French and American oak for 24 months. Deep crimson-colored, it gives up aromas of toast, spice box, espresso, blackberry, and plum. Medium to full-bodied, on the palate it displays a plush texture, ripe flavors, excellent volume and concentration, and a relatively forward personality. It will be approachable in 2-3 years and will offer prime drinking from 2013 to 2024.Jay Miller - 29/06/2010