The Cune range presents a wine for every palate, and as we move into autumn, here are a couple of lighter styles of Rioja

Back in 1879, the Compañia Vinicola del Norte de España was founded, and the first wines were labelled with the initials C.V.N.E.

Soon afterwards however, a lucky typo made the V a U, resulting in the creation of the iconic “Cune” brand, a name that very much stuck and can still be found proudly displayed on the labels of these Rioja wines all over the world.

140 years later, C.V.N.E. and Cune wines are still led by the descendants of the founders, ensuring that these wines can be the modern expression of traditional Rioja winemaking. Using the colours of the Spanish flag on the logo, Cune consider themselves the ambassadors of Spanish wine – and please find to follow, the offer of a taste of Spain…

Cune Crianza 2020

RRP: £11.90, available at EH Booths, Majestic, Ocado, Sainsburys

Peter Morrell, Editor, comments “This is the number one selling Crianza in Spain, and to earn the designation Crianza, the wine must be aged for one year in barrel and another in bottle before being released. The Cune Crianza is made predominantly with the Tempranillo. the grape of Rioja.

“I recently tasted this wine, pours a translucent red, and the bouquet offers a range of cherry and blackberry aromas with strong hints of spice and vanilla. As it moves into the mouth it has a medium bodied, and the well balanced tannins make the wine silky smooth.

“On the palate the fruit remains and is joined by deeper tones of leather, oak, tobacco and liquorice. The finish is fresh, bright, and fruity.

“The red-fruit flavours make Cune Crianza ideal for tapas dishes such as lentil stew and Rioja style potatoes (patatas a la riojana). This fruity and mellow red also goes well with roast lamb or cured Manchego cheese.”

Cune Barrel Fermented Blanco 2021

RRP: £11.49, available at Asda, Coop, EH Booths, Majestic, Sainsburys, Waitrose

Made 100% from the Viura grape variety.

This is a reminder of how good white Rioja can be. Made 100% from the Viura grape variety, this has fresh citrus flavours and a creamy richness. Ideal for pairing with Iberian ham, paella and grilled vegetables (escalivada).