CVNE (Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España), a family-owned winery with nearly 150 years of history, is a renowned name in the Rioja wine region. It’s a pleasure to present a curated selection of their exceptional wines, provided by Mr Wheeler, which have certainly brightened the spirits of wine enthusiasts like Mrs. Ray. A dedicated fan of Rioja, Mrs. Ray was delighted to receive a few drops of these wines during her recovery, and even in her weakened state, she managed several generous refills.
Among the standout selections is the 2023 CVNE ‘Orballo’ Albariño. For many, Albariño can be a challenging grape, but this wine, handpicked from vineyards in the O Rosal subzone of Rías Baixas, offers a refreshing surprise. Cool-fermented and aged for six months in a blend of concrete eggs, ceramic tanks, and stainless steel, it delivers a crisp, citrusy profile with a hint of pear. A slightly salty finish rounds out this charming wine, making it a perfect match for seafood. It’s available for £15.50, down from £17.95.
The 2019 CVNE Monopole Clásico is another intriguing offering. A rarity in the world of white wines, this Rioja is made primarily from Viura and undergoes aging under a layer of yeast, similar to the process used in fino sherry. This gives the wine an intense, creamy, and nutty character, with a subtle salinity. It offers a taste of what white Rioja used to be like and is a true testament to the craftsmanship of CVNE. Priced at £22.50, reduced from £24.95, it’s a must-try for those seeking something distinct.
The 2021 CVNE Bela Roble, from Ribera del Duero, is a blend of 95% Tempranillo and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Fermented in stainless steel and aged for nine months in American oak, it offers vibrant red and dark fruit flavors, complemented by a touch of spice. With its approachable style, this wine is a great choice for casual family meals and is priced at £13.75, down from £15.95.
For a more refined experience, the 2020 CVNE Contino Reserva showcases the quality of the vineyards surrounding the historic Contino estate in Rioja Alavesa. A blend of Tempranillo with hints of Mazuelo, Graciano, and Garnacha, it’s aged for 18 months in a mix of American and French oak. The result is a concentrated wine with fresh dark fruit flavors, accented by vanilla and liquorice, and a long, satisfying finish. It’s available for £22, reduced from £24.95.
Another standout is the 2019 CVNE Imperial Reserva, which impresses with its depth and complexity. This wine, made from vineyards over 40 years old, is a blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Mazuelo, and each vineyard parcel is fermented and aged separately. The wine’s precision and focus are evident in its rich, harmonious flavors, offering a truly pleasurable tasting experience. Priced at £24.50, down from £27.95, it’s an excellent choice for wine collectors.
For those seeking something truly special, the 2016 CVNE Viña Real Gran Reserva is a gem. Composed of 95% Tempranillo and 5% Graciano, this wine is aged for two years in oak barrels and an additional three years in bottle. Currently showing fantastic maturity, it’s still evolving and promises even greater potential with further aging. It’s available for £26.50, down from £29.95.
Finally, the 2011 CVNE Contino Gran Reserva is an exceptional treat. This classic Rioja, bottled exclusively in magnums, offers rich, concentrated flavors that make it a standout at any occasion. With its smooth, soft character, this wine is a true bargain at £99 per magnum, reduced from £119. Its quality is comparable to Bordeaux or Burgundy wines priced several times higher.
The CVNE wines are available individually or in mixed cases (two bottles each of wines 1–6), with the 2011 Contino Gran Reserva offered in boxes of three magnums. As always, delivery is free.
You might be interested
- How Many Calories Are in Cavit Pinot Grigio?
- How Do You Make Sangria? A Full Guide
- How Much Sugar is in Roscato Sweet Red Wine?
