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.

2010 was a superb vintage for Rioja. With favourable conditions throughout the growing season, 2010 was rated overall as a 95-point vintage by the Wine Advocate — the highest score awarded to a Rioja vintage by the publication, placing it alongside the legendary 2004. Aromas of spice cake, baked plum and tobacco lead to a stocky, saturated palate that is structured and built to age, tasting of cool blue fruits, herbs, coffee and chocolate. A smoothly textured finish deals cocoa and mocha notes.