Rioja Imperial Gran Reserva, Compañia Vinicola del Norte de España (CVNE) 2005

The 2005 Imperial Gran Reserva is firing on all cylinders. Smoked cured meats, balsamic notes of beeswax, antique shop and incense define the complex and elegant nose. The medium-bodied palate reveals an impressively powerful wine which manages to feel light on its feet. I needed to swallow a bit of wine to make sure; yes, it's truly elegant and classic. This is a great wine, which transports you to the old Grand Reservas of yesteryear. It delivers great quality at a great price. Drink 2016-2023.

(a blend of 85% tempranillo, 10% graciano and 5% mazuelo that was aged in French and American oak for 24 months): Deep red. Heady aromas of cherry, redcurrant, vanilla and rose oil, with a smoky nuance and a hint of cured tobacco. Sappy, penetrating, appealingly sweet red fruit flavors put on weight with air while maintaining vivacity. This impressively balanced and focused gran reserva finishes with silky tannins and excellent cut and persistence. One for the cellar.

Beautiful vanilla scent with a slight meat and mushroom character giving extra depth. Succulent black fruit. Gorgeously smooth and opulent. Heavily reliant on oak, especially on the length, but there is complexity from the grapes too - moss, milk chocolate, overripe cherry. Very good as an exemplar Rioja.