2022 CVNE Vina Real de Asua Reserva

the history of CVNE and Viña Real

Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España, or CVNE for short, was founded in 1879 in Haro, the heart of Rioja Alta. The family-owned winery has been among Spain's most influential producers for generations and is still in the hands of the fifth generation. Viña Real plays a prominent role within the CVNE group, with wines known for their refinement and expression of terroir. The Real de Asúa line is a tribute to the Asúa brothers, the founders of CVNE, and is produced in limited quantities using grapes from the finest plots in Villalba.

the terroir of Villalba in Rioja Alta

The vineyards for Real de Asúa are located in Villalba, in the Rioja Alta region. This area is characterized by a cool continental climate with Atlantic influences. The soils consist of clay and limestone, with good water management and abundant minerality. The altitude of the vineyards ensures a long growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and achieve a perfect balance between freshness and ripeness. This terroir gives the wines elegance, tension, and great aging potential.

the grape and the 2022 harvest

The 2022 Viña Real de Asúa Reserva is made from 100% Tempranillo. This varietal is Rioja's hallmark, producing wines with depth, intensity, and a distinctive structure. The 2022 growing season was challenging, with periods of heat and drought, but the old vineyards in Villalba held up well. The grapes were hand-harvested in late September, with only the finest bunches selected. The result is a wine with freshness, ripe fruit, and a firm yet refined base.

vinification and maturation

After harvest, the grapes were carefully destemmed and fermented in stainless steel tanks. The wine then aged for 12 months in French Tronçais oak barrels, a combination of new and one-year-old barrels. This maturation adds subtle notes of clove, cedar, and toasted nuances, without overpowering the fruit. After bottling in January 2025, the wine was further bottle-aged for added refinement. The wine is also suitable for vegans, a testament to CVNE's modern approach.

color, smell and taste

The 2022 Real de Asúa Reserva displays a deep cherry-red color with purple glints. The nose reveals aromas of plum, cherry, and a hint of spice, complemented by subtle barrel influences such as cloves and light toast. With time in the glass, delicate spicy and floral notes unfold. On the palate, the wine is juicy and expressive, with ultra-fine tannins that provide structure without being heavy. The finish is long, elegant, and fruit-driven, with a refined balance between freshness and depth.

reviews and storage potential

Joaquín Hidalgo awarded the 2022 Real de Asúa Reserva 94 points. He praised the wine for its polished style, graceful texture, and impressive finesse. The wine combines fruitiness and complexity with a soft, flowing structure and a long finish. Its aging potential is excellent: between 2025 and 2042, this wine will develop beautifully and reveal ever more nuance.

Order CVNE wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

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wine and food pairings

• Grilled lamb chops with thyme – the spiciness of the dish complements the subtle herbs in the wine beautifully.
• Beef tenderloin with red wine sauce – the juicy structure of the wine enhances the rich flavors of the meat and sauce.
• Mushroom and sage ravioli – the earthy notes enhance the wine’s complexity and depth.
• Duck breast with cherry sauce – the red fruit in the wine complements the sweet and sour sauce beautifully.
• Grilled eggplant with garlic and olive oil – the minerality and freshness of the wine bring balance to this hearty dish.
• Ripe Manchego or old Comté – the nutty and salty notes perfectly complement the ripe and expressive style of the wine.