80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha Tinta and Mazuelo from Rioja, Spain.
Sample submitted for review. SRP of $15. Imported by Europvin USA.
From the bottle:
"Cune Crianza is produced by the fifth generation of the founders of CVNE from the handpicked Tempranillo grapes. It ages for a minimum of one year in American and French oak casks and some months in the bottle prior to its release.
13.5% Alcohol"
Today's wine is the baby brother to the Cune Reserva we reviewed as a Saturday Splurge a couple months ago. (That post also includes an explanation of the Rioja designations like Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva.) Whereas the Cune Reserva will set you back $20-$25 today's selection is a great example of what $12 buys you in Rioja. The answer: A whole lot!
The 2010 Cune Rioja Crianza begins with pleasant aromas of really ripe red berries and cherries and a little spice. The wine tastes really satisfying with the fruit turning a bit darker in the mouth and features great touches of licorice, herbs and spice. Add in a nice smooth texture and good acidity and this wine definitely delivers. On the long, dry finish the spice turns a bit sweet and you'll also find just a touch of coffee underneath the lingering fruit.
Overall Rating: 7.8
