Lopez de Heredia is a family-run Spanish producer based in Rioja and regarded as one of the world’s greatest wine estates. It was founded in 1877 by Don Rafael Lopez de Heredia y Landeta. Four generations of the Lopez de Heredia family have devoted themselves to upholding their 140-year tradition of producing exceptional and unique wines.

Tondonia, the winery’s most famous vineyard and product, was established between 1913 and 1914. It extends over 250 acres on the right bank of the River Ebro. In addition to Tondonia, the estate owns three vineyards (Cubillo, Bosconia, and Zaconia) covering a total area of 420 hectares. The soil is alluvial clay with a high proportion of limestone.

Lopez de Heredia winery is the oldest in Haro and one of the first three houses in the Rioja region. They use completely natural and traditional methods of winemaking and their grapes are sourced exclusively from their own vineyards. They use typical Rioja varieties to produce the best wines: Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuelo for reds, Viura and Malvasia for whites.

The winery’s commitment to tradition is evident in their 131-years history of using American oak. They continue to have their own cooperage, making them the only bodega in Spain to hand-craft all the barrels used to age their wines.

Sourced from the Tondonia vineyard, this wine is a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuelo. It is aged for 6 years in oak barrels, racked twice a year and fined with fresh egg whites. It can be cellared for 10 years in perfect conditions with constant temperature and humidity.

The 2009 Lopez De Heredia Rioja Vina Tondonia Reserva is a Spanish masterpiece, hailing from the renowned Rioja region. Produced by the respected Lopez De Heredia, this red wine is a perfect showcase of the Tempranillo varietal, with a charming blend of 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacho, and a mix of Mazuelo and Graciano to round it out.

This exquisite vintage of 2009 is notable for its warm, ripe character, resulting in a wine that is both powerful and restrained. It has an enchanting color of deep red, offering a visual treat that prepares the senses for the experience that awaits. It's meticulously sealed with a cork, promising the preservation of its rich flavors and 13.0% alcohol content.

On the nose, this Reserva presents an intoxicating bouquet of sweet berries, cherries, cedar, and dried flowers. Subtle undertones of lemon and lime zest add a surprising freshness. The palate is medium to full-bodied, bolstered by tight, integrated tannins that create a remarkable length and reserve.

What sets this wine apart is its energy, freshness, and vividness. It's a classic wine with a timeless appeal, equally enjoyable now or saved for a special occasion in the future.

Renowned reviewers such as James Suckling, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, and Wine & Spirits all lavished high praise on this wine, with scores ranging from 93 to 97. These reviews are a testament to the exceptional quality and complexity of this wine, further solidifying its status as one of the finest offerings from the Lopez De Heredia estate.

In conclusion, the 2009 Lopez De Heredia Rioja Vina Tondonia Reserva is a wine of character and elegance, a true embodiment of its Spanish heritage and the expert craftsmanship of its producer. Whether savored alone or paired with a hearty meal, it promises an unforgettable tasting experience.