History and character in a Rioja red wine bearing the CVNE hallmark
In the elevated vineyards of Haro, where the history of Rioja was written more than a century ago, a red wine is born that captures the purest essence of this privileged land. Its meticulous production, ageing in French oak and the unique character of the Tempranillo variety result in a Reserva that seduces from the very first aroma. Asúa Reserva 2021 is a wine that speaks of origin, precision and a way of understanding Rioja that never goes out of style.
In the high-altitude vineyards of Haro, where the history of Rioja was written over a century ago, a red wine is born that captures the purest essence of this privileged land. Its meticulous winemaking, ageing in French oak and the unique personality of the Tempranillo variety give rise to a Reserva that seduces from the very first aroma. Asúa Reserva 2021 is a wine that speaks of origin, precision and a way of understanding Rioja that never goes out of style.
Asúa Reserva 2021 is the latest expression of a style that has made Haro a worldwide benchmark for Spanish wine. It comes from vineyards located above 500 metres, where Tempranillo reaches balanced ripeness and natural freshness that is reflected in every glass. Its 18-month ageing in French oak completes a process that seeks finesse over power, harmony over artifice.
The winery behind it, CVNE, has been an institution in Rioja since 1879. Its Asúa project pays tribute to the Real de Asúa brothers, founders of the winery and pioneers in the modernisation of Rioja wine. From Haro, the historic heart of the region, CVNE has maintained a philosophy based on respect for the terroir, rigorous grape selection and the constant pursuit of excellence. Its international prestige and the consistency of its wines place it among Spain's most influential wineries.
All this makes Asúa Reserva 2021 an essential wine for those seeking authenticity and elegance in Rioja. Perfect to pair with red meat, lamb, traditional stews or fish in sauce, and with a track record of high scores for previous vintages from critics such as James Suckling and Wine Advocate, this Reserva is a safe choice both to enjoy now and to cellar for a few more years. A red wine that confirms that the greatness of Rioja Alta is still very much alive.
Tasting notes
Nose: In this vintage, Asúa Reserva 2021 shows a deep aromatic profile, with notes of ripe black fruit, liquorice, roasted coffee and a subtle balsamic hint.
Palate: On the palate it is structured, with polished tannins and a persistent finish that reflects its ageing and origin.
The Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España is one of the great symbols of the Estación de Haro neighborhood, the great capital of Rioja wine. Founded in 1879 by the brothers Raimundo and Eusebio Real de Asúa, CVNE (as it is known worldwide) can proudly claim to have remained at the top throughout its history. Ten years after its creation, the winery inaugurated an impressive barrel hall designed by the studio of Alexandre Gustave Eiffel. By 1900, it was already producing nearly 80,000 bottles, an unthinkable feat for the time. The 20th century established CVNE as an institution of Spanish wine.
Over 140 years, it has successfully combined tradition and innovation to create wines that today are the standard-bearers of Rioja reds and have garnered international critical acclaim. Its Imperial Gran Reserva 2004 made history when it was chosen as Wine of the Year 2013 by the prestigious American magazine Wine Spectator, marking the first time a Spanish wine received this recognition.
Since its foundation, CVNE has expanded its heritage and grown with avant-garde projects at different times in its history, such as the creation of Viñedos del Contino or Viña Real.
