CVNE : Monopole Clásico 2019

The freshness and elegance of an iconic La Rioja white wine

The estate

The history of CVNE, or Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España, began in 1879. This family-run winery was founded by two brothers near the Haro train station in the region of  Rioja, Spain. The strategic location of the company allowed the marketing of the bodega's wines to flourish, facilitating bottling and the transport of wine barrels. Since then, the fifth generation has carried on the family legacy, with the company now becoming one of Spain's leading wine groups.
CVNE has a vineyard of 545 hectares spread across La Rioja Alta and La Rioja Alavesa on exceptional terroirs.

The vineyard

This CVNE Monopole Clásico 2019 is a La Rioja wine from the estate's vineyards in Villalba de Rioja. This 5-hectare terroir, planted 15 years ago, is exposed to the east on limestone soils. The vines are located at an altitude of over 600 metres and are trellised to ensure protection from the wind.

The wine

Launched at the beginning of the 20th century, CVNE's Monopole was the first white wine range in Spain. Dating back to 1915, this name indicates that these great white wines from La Rioja are made from a single vineyard. A pure and refined expression of the great terroirs of Rioja Alta and of the Viura grape variety, this Monopole cuvée quickly became a benchmark among the great Spanish wines before declining during the 1970s.

In 2014, CVNE set out its aim to bring back, phoenix-like, this emblematic cuvée. Ezequiel García, the winery's cellar master for more than thirty years, took up the challenge, using the vinification methods of the 1970s. This master, nicknamed El Brujo, "the sorcerer," produced two great wines, the Monopole Clásico and the Monopole Clásico Gran Reserva.

The vintage

The year 2019 was relatively mild throughout the growth cycle. During May and June, temperature fluctuations and low rainfall had an impact on yields. The small, concentrated grapes were of great quality, revealing an intense fruity structure, the signature of the Viura grape.

Winemaking and ageing

Harvests done by hand in 20 kg crates, followed by a light pressing. Using techniques from the 1960s, alcoholic fermentation takes place in steel vats. After racking, the wine is placed in used barrels and "botas" of 300, 400 and 500 litres for an ageing period of about 8 months under a layer of "flor", a natural yeast that gives the wine its complexity.

Blend

Viura and other local grape varieties.

Characteristics and tasting tips for Monopole Clásico 2019 from CVNE

This great Spanish white wine delights with its freshness, its richness and its structure.