Viña Tondonia Tinto Reserva 2013

95 POINTS: James Suckling
97 POINTS: Joaquín Hidalgo - Vinous
95 POINTS: Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate

Tasting in the presence of María José of Lopéz de Heredia was quite special - and the 2013 release of their famed single vineyard, Viña Tondonia, Tinto Reserva showed beautifully. Offering aromas of crushed rose petals, dried cherries and forest floor, this 2013 was showing its completeness on the palate with its drinkability. Flavours of allspice and cured jamón come through, the texture is elegantly crafted, with long fine tannins and an abundant vibrant freshness to complete. Delicious.

López de Heredia is “one of the last great bastions of Rioja tradition” (Hugh Johnson). As Luis Gutiérrez writes on erobertparker.com, “visiting the winery is like time travelling to 100 years ago, with no stainless steel or new oak to be found anywhere”. All their wines are named after different plots on the estate. From a year of "powerful, concentrated wines of good quality" (Jancis Robinson), Tondonia Reserva comprises mainly Tempranillo (75%), plus portions of Garnacha (15%), Graciano/Mazuelo (10%), all aged for six years in barrels, then bottled unfiltered for maximum flavour. It’s a wine of great complexity with a savoury aroma of spice, leather, intense berry and cigar box. The palate is remarkably fresh and long. Decant early and savour slowly.

ABV: 13%