A Wine for Tonight: 2013 Cune Monopole Rioja Blanco



By Kori ~ October 15th, 2014.

Would you like a quick suggestion for a good wine to drink tonight (or this weekend) that won’t break your budget and is widely available? If so, you might want to check out the 2013 Cune Monopole Rioja Blanco from the Rioja Alta appellation in Spain.

Our selection criteria include:

  • A very good Quality rating of >=3.5 stars (out of 5)
  • A price tag of <=$20
  • Must be widely available

Cune, also known as Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España, was founded in 1879 by brothers Eusebio and Raimundo Real de Asua in Haro, Rioja, and is still family-owned and family-operated by direct descendants of the founders. Monopole, produced by Cune since 1915, is the oldest white wine brand of Spain.

“Slight yellow greenish color. Seductive scent of spring, white flowers and fresh tropical fruit. In the mouth, it is nice and long, leaving a slight acidity that gives a feeling of freshness that results in an increased potential retronasal aroma. Ideal companion for appetizers, snacks, fish and seafood.” –Cune

2013 Cune Monopole Rioja Blanco (Rioja Alta, Spain): 100% Viura. Pale, straw yellow in color. Very aromatic with orange blossom and tropical notes on the nose. More floral notes as well as lime come through on the palate. Dry and light to medium-bodied with very crisp acidity. Well-balanced and refreshing with a long, lingering finish.
Quality: 4 stars (out of 5)
QPR: 4 bangs for your buck (out of 5)
Where to buy: Received as sample, suggested retail $15; Available elsewhere, $9 to $18


Filed under: A Wine for Tonight, Lesser Known Varietals, Spanish Wine, White Wine, Wines Under $15, Wines Under $20, Wines Under $25

Reader's Comments

  1. Winederlusting | October 31st, 2014 at 12:40 pm

    Sounds pretty nice. I’m not that familiar with the Blanco varietals from the Rioja region, but I have been drinking a lot of Gernacha y tempranillo. From what I can tell, there’s something that pops, a brightness to these grapes grown in the highland. It will be interesting to see if a white like this has that same “coolness” associated with it. Thanks for the recommendation.

  2. Kori | October 31st, 2014 at 1:56 pm

    Winederlusting,
    Hope you enjoy it! Cheers!

  3. allaboutwine | November 25th, 2014 at 9:12 pm

    Your post was great; very moving and thoughtful. Glad I came across it.