R. Lopez de Heredia, Tondonia Tinto Reserva, Rioja

Seller: MarionWine 5

The Wine Advocate: “The 2012 Viña Tondonia Reserva comes from a very dry year, with 25% less rain than the average (at the time), resulting in lower yields of very healthy grapes that delivered wines with nice balance between alcohol and polyphenols, making it very apt for the aging in barrel. It had a slightly longer élevage in barrel, six years. The wine is aromatic with a developed profile, spicy and tertiary (forest floor, a touch of brick dust and iodine), complex and nuanced. The palate is full and round, with polished tannins and a long, dry finish. Drink now-2035.” 95 points Vinous: “The 2012 Viña Tondonia is a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano, cultivated on the meander of the Ebro River in Rioja Alta. This garnet wine reveals aromas of ash and plum marmalade, with a faintly herbal core and hints of oaky cedar. Dry and lean, the fairly chalky texture lingers long, concluding with a compact, flavourful and lasting finish. The 2012 is a beautiful old-school Rioja. Drink now-2035.” 95 points Decanter: “After six years in barrel (produced at López de Heredia's own cooperage) and three in bottle prior to release this is all you can expect from a classical Viña Tondonia with its focused intensity and muscular yet super elegant tannins. Assertive but also super silky, with juicy fruit gliding through the palate while being pleasantly pulled back by an energetic, smoky verve. Broody while at the same time mature - another accomplished vintage of a true classic. Drink now-2040.” 94 points James Suckling: Savoury berries, plums, iron, minerals, tobacco, ink, and blood oranges. Very bright, juicy, and structured, with sensational balance, aged savoriness, and brightness typical of Tondonia reds. Beautiful" 96 points Always kept in aging cellar in best condition