Monopole Rioja Clasico 2020

C.V.N.E.

Monopole Rioja Clasico
2020

  • Vegan
Country
Spain
Regulated designation
Denominación de origen calificada (DOCa)
Region
La Rioja
Subregion
Alta
Appellation
Rioja
Varietal(s)
Viura 100 %
Colour
White
Sugar
Dry
Sugar content
1.3 g/l
Producer's website

About this winery

Founded in 1879 by the brothers Eusebio and Raimundo Real de Asua, the Compañia Vinicola del Norte de España is one of the oldest estates in La Rioja. C.V.N.E. is located in Haro, in the traditional wine trade district, next to the train station. In this period when transport was not very advanced, there was a definite advantage in locating your cellar very close to a train station! By 1900, this company had more than 80,000 bottles intended for prolonged aging, which was rare at that time...

See the C.V.N.E. detail page for more information on this brand

Product notes

The grapes used to produce Monopole Clasico are harvested from the Villalba de Rioja vineyard, over 5 hectares planted in calcareous soils 15 years ago with an east-facing aspect. The vines are trellis-trained to offer protection from the prevailing winds. At an altitude of over 600 metres.

Production notes

The grapes are hand-harvested in 20 kg boxes. The grapes are gently pressed, and the must is transferred into concrete tanks for static clarification. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, and the wine is subsequently aged together with the fine lees in barrels and casks that have been used previously for different wines with capacities of 300, 400 and 500 litres. The wine is left to settle in the barrels and casks of varying capacities for around 8 months, during which periodic tastings are carried out.

Tasting notes

Monopole Clásico 2020 is a white wine distinguished by its creamy profile and moderate aromatic intensity. On the nose, clear notes of chamomile and dried fruits contribute to its distinctive character. Its barrel aging imparts a smooth and enveloping texture, while its well-balanced acidity enhances a remarkable freshness. The finish is long and persistent, leaving a lasting and pleasant impression. Perfect for appreciating its complexity and freshness.

Press reviews

James Suckling

- 94 points -

James Suckling, March 2022 (Vintage 2018)

Wild aromas of dried pineapple, mango and salted nuts. Full-bodied with lots of fruit and a creamy palate with a nutty and eccentric aftertaste. Aged 15% in sherry casks. So cool. Drink and enjoy.

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James Suckling

- 94 points -

James Suckling, September 2020 (Vintage 2017)

This is so much fun and one of my favorite whites from Spain. Medium to full body. Nutty and creamy with ripe peach and pine, but always the light, Sherry-cask undertone. Honey and dried fruit at the end. Drink now.

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Vinous

- 93 points -

Josh Raynolds, June 2021 (Vintage 2018)

Light, bright yellow. A complex, penetrating bouquet evokes dried pear, lemon pith, beeswax, salted nuts and chamomile. Chewy and broad on the palate, offering intense Meyer lemon, pear, membrillo and honeysuckle flavors and a hint of toasted almond. The salty note drives an impressively long, focused finish that echoes the pear, salt and floral notes.

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Wine Spectator

- 92 points -

Alison Napjus, October 2023 (Vintage 2019)

A distinctive white, this opens with generous aromas of fragrant ground anise, graphite and crushed pine, followed by up-front flavors of poached apricot and blood orange that transition to dried white cherry and salted almond notes reminiscent of a good fino Sherry. Bright and graceful, with well-knit, mouthwatering acidity and a lingering finish that echoes the cherry and almond profile. Drink now through 2028. 2,500 cases made, 600 cases imported.

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Vinous
Josh Raynolds, April 2021 (Vintage 2017)

Bright straw-gold. Dried lemon zest, pear skin, jasmine and hints of chamomile and toasted nuts on the saline-inflected nose. Tight, chewy and dry on the palate, offering pear nectar, lemon curd and sweet butter flavors that show an intriguing oxidative quality. Finishes very long and spicy, with repeating pear and floral notes and a smoky nuance making a late appearance.

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