CVNE : Monopole Clásico Gran Reserva 2015

An emblematic Rioja white wine combining aromatic intensity with a great delicateness

The estate

The history of CVNE, or Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España, began in 1879. This family-run winery was founded by two brothers near the Haro train station in the region of  Rioja, Spain. The strategic location of the company allowed the marketing of the bodega's wines to flourish, facilitating bottling and the transport of wine barrels. Since then, the fifth generation has carried on the family legacy, with the company now becoming one of Spain's leading wine groups.

CVNE has a vineyard of 545 hectares spread across La Rioja Alta and La Rioja Alavesa on exceptional terroirs.

The vineyard

This CVNE Monopole Clásico Gran Reserva 2015 is a La Rioja wine from the estate's vineyards in Villalba de Rioja. This 5-hectare terroir, planted 15 years ago, faces east on limestone soils. The vines are located at an altitude of over 600 metres and are trellised to ensure protection from the wind.

The wine

Launched at the beginning of the 20th century, CVNE's Monopole was the first white wine range in Spain. Dating back to 1915, this name indicates that these great white wines from La Rioja are made from a single vineyard. A pure and refined expression of the great terroirs of Rioja Alta and of the Viura grape variety, this Monopole cuvée quickly became a benchmark among the great Spanish wines before declining during the 1970s.

In 2014, CVNE set out its aim to bring back, phoenix-like, this emblematic cuvée. Ezequiel García, the winery's cellar master for more than thirty years, took up the challenge, using the vinification methods of the 1970s. This master, nicknamed El Brujo, "the sorcerer," produced two great wines, the Monopole Clásico and the Monopole Clásico Gran Reserva.

The vintage

A dry winter, marked by frosts, preceded a wet spring and summer. The significant temperature contrasts between day and night ensured that the grapes remained fresh. The harvest, which was particularly early and rapid in the history of the estate, took place under exceptional weather conditions, allowing the harvest of healthy grapes of a high quality.

Winemaking and ageing

The grapes are harvested by hand in 20kg crates early in the morning, followed by refrigeration of the grapes before a delicate pressing. Using techniques from the 1960s, alcoholic fermentation takes place in used barrels and "botas" of 300 and 500 litres. The wine is aged for five years in six used Rioja barrels and two older botas, under a layer of "flor," a natural yeast that gives the wine its complexity.

Blend

Viura (100%)

Characteristics and tasting tips for Monopole Clásico Gran Reserva 2015 from CVNE

Tasting

Colour
The wine is of a beautiful golden yellow colour.

Nose
The nose is intense, mingling fruity (apple, pear, apricot) and orange zest fragrances to delicious notes linked to the wine’s 60 months of ageing, evoking pastries, honey and almond notes, as well as subtle mineral notes.

Palate
The palate delights with its finesse and elegance. A delicious salinity draws out to a refreshing, lingering finish.

Food and wine pairing

This Spanish white wine pairs marvellously with salads, fish or meats.

To serve

For the best tasting, serve between 8 and 10°C.