Please note that our reviews are based on a variety of sources: samples sent to our team, those we purchase in store, tasting events, those tasted in restaurants and while traveling domestically and internationally.
Red Wine
CVNE Imperial Reserva 2020, Rioja, Spain: Imperial Reserva, the wine that put CVNE on the international map after a major American publication named it the world's number one wine in 2013, comes from old bush vines near Villalba de Rioja growing on poor, cool clay and limestone soils. A blend built mostly from Tempranillo with smaller shares of three companion grapes is carefully fermented plot by plot before maturing patiently in oak. The wine carries a quiet confidence, dark plum and a savoury earthiness sitting underneath firm, settled tannins. Drink it now through 2031 with roast rosemary lamb, bison burgers, or roast grouse. Food pairings: roast rosemary lamb, bison burgers, roast grouse. Drink: 2026 - 2034 424390 14% XD 750 mL $50.00 Score: 95/100. September 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
White Wine
CVNE Corona Gran Reserva 2016, Rioja, Spain: Corona Gran Reserva is CVNE's rare semi-sweet white, made from grapes affected by noble rot in a single plot in Villalba de Rioja and harvested as late as January, a recipe the house revived after decades of obscurity. There's a confectionery quality on the nose, toasted marshmallow and dried apricot mingling with cantaloupe and a faint paraffin note, all carrying noticeable sweetness without ever feeling cloying. The flavours stay intense and tightly wound, with fresh acidity giving real lift and length to a unique style within Rioja's white wine tradition. Drink it now or hold for further development. Food pairings: seared scallops, roast pork tenderloin, crème brûlée. Drink: 2026 - 2030 52333 14% D 750 mL $250.23 Score: 97/100. September 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart