The 2007 Lopez De Heredia Rioja Vina Tondonia Reserva is a distinguished Tempranillo from the famed Rioja region of Spain. Produced by the reputable Lopez De Heredia, this wine boasts a rich history and meticulous production process. It spends six years aging in barrique to stabilize naturally, followed by racking into large casks and bottling three years before release. This careful aging process is evident in the wine's complexity and depth.
James Suckling awarded this wine a high score of 95, noting its "attractive, dark earth and dried sage" aromas, complemented by "rich dried cherries, blackberries, and hints of cedar, cigar tobacco, and fresh leather." He describes the palate as having a "smooth array of fine but quite powerful tannin that builds seamlessly into the long, rich, dark cherry-flavored finish." Suckling concludes his review with high praise, stating, "Great wine! Drink or hold."
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave the 2007 Viña Tondonia Reserva an even higher score of 96, highlighting its "unusual finesse and elegance." The review describes the nose as "a little reticent but nuanced and complex, a little shy rather than explosive." On the palate, the wine is "medium-bodied, and the tannins are very refined," making it one of the finest vintages of recent years. The wine was bottled in November 2015, with a substantial production of 200,000 bottles.
Wine & Spirits also commended the wine with a score of 94, appreciating its classical Rioja characteristics. The review emphasizes the "gentle, lasting touch of bright, sunny cherry notes and deep earth tones," describing the flavors as "delicately saturated."
Vinous, another respected publication, rated the wine 94 as well. Reviewer Josh Raynolds noted its "intensely perfumed bouquet" with "raspberry, cherry cola, potpourri, and exotic spices," alongside a "vanilla topnote and a smoky mineral flourish." The palate offers "sappy red fruit, spicecake, mocha, and rose pastille flavors," finishing "very long and spicy, with a resonating floral note, well-knit tannins, and a touch of medicinal herbs."
Overall, the 2007 Lopez De Heredia Rioja Vina Tondonia Reserva is a complex, well-aged Tempranillo that has garnered high praise from multiple esteemed reviewers. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now or held for future enjoyment, reflecting the meticulous care and tradition of its producer.