2004 Viña Real, Reserva C.V.N.E.

Viña Real is usually seen as the Burgundy to Imperial’s Bordeaux, evidenced aesthetically by the shape of the bottle and, more profoundly, by gustatory differences relating to tannic structure and provenance of fruit. The majority of the fruit for Real comes from Rioja Alavesa, which, surely not a coincidence, is the only part of the Denominacion to have limestone in the soil. The blend here is 90% Tempranillo and 10% Garnacha; the perfume is classic Viña real, with an ethereal elegance and robust spicy note’ the palate is all velvet and plush, this is a luxuriant Rioja from a top vintage, already drinking nicely.
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)