CVNE Vina Real Gran Reserva Rioja 2016

95 points Wine Advocate
The extremely affordable 2016 Viña Real Gran Reserva Especial recovers the "Especial" mention from the old Reserva Especial vintages from a very good year. It's open and expressive, with notes of berries, fresh blood and iron, orange peel and sweet spices with the oak still present and in need of some more time in bottle. The palate is medium-bodied and feels lean and serious, with abundant chalky tannins. This should be a classical vintage of this wine in the making.

95 points James Suckling
Attractive nose of dark cherries, dill, thyme, coconut and chocolate. Some salted caramel, too. It's medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins and vibrant acidity. So balanced and fresh with a long, refined finish.