2017 Asua Rioja Crianza

In 1879, the Real de Asúa brothers arrived in Haro, ostensibly on a sojourn for their health, and quickly set about founding a winery. It wasn’t long until CVNE’s reputation was established, as they were able to take advantage of Bordeaux’s phylloxera epidemic to find success in the British market. Their home in the Barrio de la Estacíon, which they share with several other famous Bodegas, is iconic, as is their Gustave Eiffel-designed cellar (yes, as in the Eiffel Tower). Now on their 5th generation with Victor Urrutia at the helm, CVNE has grown a stable of some of Rioja’s best-known wines – from Contino, their ultra-modern single-vineyard project, to Viña Real, with wines grounded in Rioja’s traditions – as well as wineries in Ribera del Duero, Valdeorras and Penedés. This Crianza, drawn from vineyards around Haro itself, carries intense notes of blackcurrant, black cherry, and black pepper, with hints of clove and vanilla spice from its 18 months spent in French and American oak. Drink with spicy roast vegetables, barbecued lamb and beef, and mature cheeses.