Author: Dirk Chan
Our online feature this week is the 2018 Cune Reserva (Rioja, Spain) – $25.49, regularly $29.99.
The history of Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España began back in 1879 (making them one of the oldest wineries in Spain) at this winery in the famous Barrio de la Estación train station in the town of Haro. Over more than 140 years, it has continued to grow around the Aldea del Vino (Wine Village), a sunny courtyard flanked by unique stone buildings with ceramic tile roofs, which has become the central hub of CVNE.
The first wine produced by CVNE took the name of the company’s initials. However, a simple and fortunate spelling error, confusing the V with a U, led to the creation of the now iconic Cune brand, now one of the leading wineries on the national market. The winery expanded its facilities in 2019, coinciding with its 140th anniversary and marking its continued commitment to producing the finest quality white, rosé and its various levels of red wines ranging from Crianzas to Gran Reserva’s.
Our weekly special this week is their 2018 Reserva, a blend of 85% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacha, Graciano & Mazuelo. Bright ruby red in color with very fine aromatic intensity of freshly picked berries along with notes of licorice typical of the Tempranillo variety. All this well-combined with the sweet cherry and raspberry notes of the spices that come from the aging in 225 litre barrels for 18 months. This is extremely well priced for a Reserva. The wine pairs perfectly with meat, fish, stews, and cheeses.
2018 Cune Reserva (Rioja, Spain) – $25.49 (regularly $29.99)