The CWB Co-Op CVNE Spain-off

Two Co-op wines from CVNE that aren’t red Rioja

Spain’s CVNE (aka Cune, “coo-nay”) is synonymous with red Rioja — well-made, reliable and well priced, it is a great go-to for a classy, plush, sophisticated crowd-pleaser.

These two wines from CVNE are no less impressive — the white Rioja is a versatile food wine in the restrained, savoury style of Chablis or Loire Sauvignon that punches well above its weight.

The red Ribera del Duero has the ripeness, intensity and freshness of high-altitude vineyards.

Match the white with tapas style starters:

Pair the red with some griddled steak:

**Cune White Rioja, Spain, 2023 (£8.75, Co-op)**

They say:

A softly oaked but fruity white. A reminder of how good white Rioja can be; with fresh citrus flavours and toasty richness. Great with roast chicken

I say:

13.5%

100% Viura

pale straw yellow; white stone fruits, melon, orchard fruits and sweet spice; fresh, citrussy melon, pear and white peach fruit; leesy-oatmealy macadamia, grapefruit pith and persistent, complex saline minerality with a whiff of toasty white pepper.

Good and Good Value.

Drinks nicely on first opening, opens up with aeration and can be cellared for greater complexity.

Serve as an aperitif or match with starters, meaty white fish, plain roast white meat or quiches.

Cune Ribera Del Duero, Spain, 2021 (£10.50, Co-op)

They say:

This Spanish red, situated in vineyards that are 800m above sea level in the town of Villalba de Duero, Burgos, has intense red fruit aromas and a good balance, with the spicy nuances brought by its ageing in the barrel

I say:

14%

100% Tempranillo

translucent ruby; baked dark berries and blueberries, oaky spice, cedarwood and garrigue herbs; fresh plum and cherry fruit with blackberries, liquorice, plush, fine, supple-but-firm tannins, pepper, damp earth and roasted spices. Harmonious and well integrated.

Good.

Match with roasted red meats, such as griddled steak, rosemary-and-garlic lamb or venison.

Drinking nicely now, but can be cellared further.