Rioja Gran Reserva Imperial 2005 is a medium-bodied and intense ruby-red wine. Imperial is one of the big names of Spain. It is a true classic in Rioja and was first produced in the twenties. Its name comes from a special bottling for the English market, in a measure called ‘Pinta Imperial’ or ‘Imperial Pint’ which is approximately half a litre. It has always been characterised by its very high and constant quality in every vintage.
It is rich with black and red berry fruit, along with liquorice notes. It is wonderfully generous in its fruitiness. Along with toasty oak and savoury balsamic. As well as plums and damsons. It has a long finish.
It reminds me of autumn berry fruits and has tastes of coffee, caramel and cinnamon. A well structured palate adds to this brilliant wine. It is pricey, but worth it at £26.99. The price may make it one for a special occasion, just make sure the occasion happens.
Gran reserva is the top wine classification of the Rioja region. For the classification it has to have been aged for five years.
Enjoy with roast lamb, game, cheese and stew.
Thank you Craig. Lots of great info there. You obviously know your stuff.
Imperial by Cune is the top of the line range for this consistently high performer in the Rioja region. Although I personally prefer wines from the Ribera del Duero region, not so easy to find in the UK, as they are smoother, fruitier and generally more palatable, the Rioja region has some very fine wines and, I would concur that Imperial by Cune is one of the best value/quality ratio red wines on the market. At £26,99 in the UK it is considerably more expensive than it is here in Spain, however, by comparison, within the UK market, it is still exceptional value.
It’s not a plonk, it really is a wine to be tasted and savoured.
A great wine for that special occasion and ideal to accompany roast lamb, pork, paella or a wonderful cheeseboard (try and get some Asturian Cabrales chess on there for a spectacular contrast. Of course, don’t forget FRESH brag (Baguette, barra larga etc)