The 2011 Lopez De Heredia Rioja Vina Tondonia Reserva is a distinguished Tempranillo from the Rioja region of Spain. This red wine, produced by the reputable Lopez De Heredia winery, showcases the traditional characteristics of a classic Rioja with a touch of modern finesse.
James Suckling awarded this wine a notable score of 95, describing it as "a traditional beauty that effuses iron, warm earth and savory tobacco leaves, together with plums, spices, and orange zest." Suckling highlighted its juicy, firm, and savory tannins, noting its medium weight and zesty texture, recommending it for immediate consumption or further aging.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate echoed similar sentiments, giving it a score of 94. The review by LG noted that the 2011 vintage is "darker and shows riper fruit, a rounder palate and some dusty tannins." The wine's power and finesse were emphasized, with a comparison to the 2010 vintage revealing more muscle and a broader structure in the 2011. The wine advocate also mentioned its substantial production of 270,000 bottles, and its bottling date in May 2019.
Wine Spectator also contributed a strong review with a score of 93, describing the wine as "richly savory on the nose" with a "minerally underpinning of petrol, earth, iron and salt." This fresh and sinewy red opens nicely in the glass, offering a persistent finish with aromatic herbs and spices. The blend includes Tempranillo, Garnacho, Graciano, and Mazuelo, and is recommended to drink now through 2031.
Wine & Spirits provided another excellent review with a score of 94, praising the wine for its traditional Rioja characteristics. The review highlighted its tight, floral, light, and meaty complexity. The wine is noted for its silken texture, notes of oak, and a touch of volatility, making it a versatile red wine.
Vinous, also scoring it 94, pointed out that the wine has a "youthful nose" and is "probably still too young to broach" with hints of black plum, clove, star anise, and smoke. Neal Martin described the palate as firm and structured with grippy tannins, recommending that it be cellared for another decade to reach its full potential.
Overall, the 2011 Lopez De Heredia Rioja Vina Tondonia Reserva is a highly regarded wine, praised for its traditional yet powerful characteristics, making it a noteworthy choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging.