Vina Tondonia Red Rioja Reserva Bodega Lopez Heredia – 2014

This iconic Rioja comes from a gravel-stoned single vineyard on the northern bank of the Rio Ebro in Rioja Alta. The vines average around 50 years old. The wine is a blend of 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, and 5% each of Graciano and Mazuelo,  which is fermented in large old oak casks before being matured for 6 years in aged American oak barrels. It then spent a further  5 years in bottle before being released for sale. This is the classic way Rioja used to be made, and consumed when mature and ready to drink. It has 13% alcohol.

“The very pretty red 2014 Viña Tondonia Reserva is stunning. The blend this year is 80% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacho and the rest Graciano and Mazuelo. It matured in the old oak vats and well-seasoned American oak barrels for eight years and has 13% alcohol, a pH of 3.3 and 6.7 grams of acidity. María José told me she noticed the alcohol here compared with other vintages, but I found the wine to be really balanced, combining power and elegance, with energy and a polished and elegant palate.” 95/100 Wine Advocate