CVNE, Rioja Imperial Reserva Brut Zero powerful and initially brooding but

powerful and initially brooding but aeration brings up alluring cassis

The powerful finish is spicy and dusty with terrific intensity and ends on a note of velvet

Marked acidity and fruit reminiscent of red hard candy/Spangles

Not much has changed since then

A much more restrained nose reluctantly offers up its array of exceptionally floral-infused aromas that include those of acacia

CVNE, Rioja Imperial Reserva Brut Zero powerful and initially brooding but85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo Matured for 4 years in French and American oak barrels, 2yrs in bottle. Strong coconut aroma and plenty of red fruit. Couldn't be anything but traditional Rioja. Then surprisingly and attractively savoury on the palate. Rich but fresh. Dry, fine tannins. Still very youthful. Benchmark. (JH)