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.

Introducing the 2011 Lopez De Heredia Rioja Vina Tondonia Reserva, a remarkable red wine from the esteemed region of Rioja, Spain. This wine exudes elegance and tradition with every sip, showcasing the mastery of the renowned producer, Lopez De Heredia.

In the glass, this wine reveals a captivating deep red color that catches the eye and sets the stage for the sensory journey to come. The nose is immediately greeted by enticing aromas of iron, warm earth, and savory tobacco leaves, which intertwine harmoniously with notes of plums, spices, and a hint of orange zest. This complex bouquet tantalizes the senses and promises a truly unique tasting experience.

On the palate, the 2011 Lopez De Heredia Rioja Vina Tondonia Reserva impresses with its juicy yet firm texture. The medium-weight body is enlivened by a zesty character, showcasing the signature style of Lopez De Heredia's red wines. The tannins, while present, are savory and well-integrated, adding depth and structure to the wine. This is a wine that can be enjoyed now or held for further development, offering both immediate pleasure and the potential for aging.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling was captivated by this wine, awarding it an impressive score of 95 points. In his tasting note, he praises the wine's traditional beauty, highlighting the iron, earth, and tobacco notes that are beautifully complemented by the fruit, spices, and zest. Suckling also notes the wine's tightness and savory tannins, which contribute to its overall appeal.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also recognized the excellence of the 2011 Viña Tondonia Reserva, awarding it a score of 94 points. The publication remarks on the wine's darker fruit profile, rounder palate, and dusty tannins. They compare it to the equally exceptional 2010 vintage, noting how the 2011 exhibits more muscle and a wider back, while the 2010 embodies finesse and elegance.

With only 270,000 bottles produced, the 2011 Lopez De Heredia Rioja Vina Tondonia Reserva is a true gem that should not be missed. Whether enjoyed now or aged for further complexity, this wine showcases the best of Rioja's terroir and the expertise of Lopez De Heredia. Indulge in a glass and experience the timeless beauty and allure of this exceptional red wine.