Our best vineyards in Rioja Alta are set aside for the production of Imperial Gran Reserva. In 2018 we selected the small plots Remedio and Encinas, located in Villalba between 550 and 650 m of altitude, very close to the Sierra de Toloño and with a climate of Atlantic and continental influence. These plots represent a total of 12-hectare among the 42 that CVNE owns in this town. The plots of Barbarroja and Antoñanzas were also chosen in 2018, situated in Torremontalbo and where the low yielding vines are 40 years old. The vines are bush trained, dry farmed and the plots are small. The soils are clay with areas of river pebbles, are low in organic matter and are situated on gentle south facing slopes. The climate is moderate continental.

The 2018 harvest took us back to weather conditions of years ago, with a winter of heavy frosts, snow and abundant rainfall. The spring was also cold and rainy and then came the summer, warm but without excessive temperatures, which allowed for good ripening. These weather conditions, generalised in Rioja Alta, were also met particularly in our Imperial vineyards, allowing the production of wines with a slightly lower alcohol content than usual, a slightly higher acidity and, in short, wines with a lot of fruit and freshness.

Layer of red cherry colour. Complex aromatic intensity with hints of blackberries, gooseberries, strawberries and liquorice. All accompanied by aromas from the barrel aging such as roasted coffee, chocolate, cloves, toffee, cigar leaf… On the palate it has a smooth entry and a passage marked by soft tannins, giving it elegance. A long and fruity finish with certain balsamic notes. A round and balanced wine that can be paired with meat, fatty fish, cured cheeses…