Lopez de Heredia - Rioja Viña Tondonia Reserva 2014

The beautiful Viña Tondonia Reserva 2014 red is breathtaking. This year’s blend consists of 80% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacho, with the remainder made up of Graciano and Mazuelo. It aged for eight years in old oak vats and well-seasoned American oak barrels; it has an alcohol content of 13.5%, a pH of 3.3, and an acidity of 6.7 grams. María José told me she found the alcohol content to be more pronounced here compared to other vintages, but I found this wine to be truly balanced, combining power and elegance, with beautiful energy and a refined, elegant palate. They bottled all the wines a little later than in the past, which was partly intentional but also due to circumstances such as bottle availability or logistical constraints related to COVID-19, etc. 300,000 bottles were produced. Bottling took place in March 2022. 2026–2045

The 2014 Reserva Viña Tondonia, aged for six years in American oak barrels and bottled in November 2022, is characterized by a well-defined bouquet. On the nose, notes of sweet herbs, forest floor, and dried cherry unfold against a slightly tart, woody backdrop. The palate is lively and energetic, embodying the estate’s signature style with subtle firmness and freshness that support the structure. 2026–2040