Hello from upstate NY

I'm new to the group, so hello.
I have had a pretty good run with my 2008 CRV. No real complaints, but I do have a question about the AWD. I had a mid 90s Subaru Impreza before this which was a little tank in the snow. You remember the add 'from the wheels that slip to the wheels that grip' right? I went a little too slow into a small burm of snow yesterday, and both front and rear passenger tires were in about 5" worth, while both driver side tires were on pavement. My little flashing triangle came on , and the two tires on the pavement just sat there, while the (one or both) tires in the snow just spun. Does the slip and grip thing not apply to the CRV AWD? I haven't noticed a problem when I have a little momentum, going through some snow. Thanks for any replies. Still love the car.