Weekend Wine: CVNE or Cune?

The winemaker known as CVNE’s name is short for Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España. Americans couldn’t wrap their brains around a name missing a vowel, so the company became known, incorrectly, as Cune.

The company is well regarded and has been owned by the same family since 1879. However, they are large enough to realize massive economies of scale. That is how they can offer a gorgeous wine like their Rioja Crianza for just $12.

It is made from younger grapes and, like all Crianzas, is aged for a shorter time than the Reserva wines. Like many Spanish wines, this is a bargain that would cost much more from a different country. It is mostly Tempranillo with a little Grenache and Carignan thrown in. The wine carries raspberry and cherry aromas with just a tiny addition of vanilla from oak. This is not a gangbuster wine for folks looking for a Napa Cab. It is lighter but also more food-friendly. It would match beautifully with beef stew or meats grilled in the backyard. Thankfully, it is widely available for the asking.

Remember to get the wine under 70 degrees before you open it.

If you fall in love with their wines (like me), try some of their Gran Reserva wines when you are feeling flush. While expensive at around $100, they are still great values for their cost.