Lopez de Heredia : Vina Tondonia Reserva 2014

Characteristics and tasting notes of the Vina Tondonia Reserva 2014 from Lopez de Heredia

Tasting

Appearance
This wine reveals a vibrant red colour, adorned with subtle amber and tile-like highlights that reflect its long ageing.

Nose
The bouquet is both light and remarkably fresh. It releases delicate aromas of dried berries and vanilla, enriched by complex nuances of candied fruits, sweet spices and tertiary notes such as light tobacco and undergrowth.

Palate
Particularly rich and very dry, the palate offers a velvety and accomplished texture. The balance is remarkable, supported by firm yet exceptionally fine tannins, leading to a long and elegant finish.

Food and wine pairings
This cuvée pairs wonderfully with all meat-based dishes. It will especially enhance a rack of lamb, roasted red meats or slow-cooked dishes in a light sauce.

Serving and cellaring
To fully appreciate the Vina Tondonia Reserva 2014, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature between 18 and 20°C. As for its cellaring, this wine can be kept for around 10 years, provided it is stored at a constant temperature and humidity.

Other characteristics
This very dry red wine has an alcohol content of 13% vol. and a total acidity of 6.5 g/l.

A red wine from La Rioja elevated by the expertise of Lopez de Heredia

The estate
Founded in 1877 by Don Rafael López de Heredia, this iconic brand is one of the oldest in La Rioja. Located in Haro, the estate covers approximately 170 hectares. Today, the fourth generation, led by Maria José López de Heredia along with Julio César and Mercedes, oversees the property. This bastion of tradition stands out for its refusal to purchase grapes from outside sources and for the use of its own cooperage. The house thus continues to produce ageing wines of exceptional elegance and longevity.

The vineyard
Extending over more than 100 hectares, the vineyard from which this wine is produced is located on the right bank of the Ebro river, in the heart of Rioja Alta. The vines flourish on poor clay-limestone soils with some limestone outcrops. This terroir benefits from a marked Atlantic influence, offering moderate summers and cool nights, ideal conditions for the slow and optimal ripening of the berries.

The vintage
The growing cycle this year was marked by unpredictable weather. After a very dry start to the season until May, stormy episodes struck the vineyard from late June to mid-September, followed by heavy rainfall. These conditions required an early harvest in order to preserve the health of the clusters and prevent the development of botrytis. This vintage was nonetheless classified as "Good" by the Regulatory Council.

Vinification and ageing
The manually harvested grapes ferment in large old wooden vats, without any temperature control. The Vina Tondonia Reserva 2014 is then aged for six years in American oak barrels crafted by the estate's own cooperage. During this period, the wine is racked by hand twice a year, then fined with fresh egg whites. It is finally bottled without filtration and rests at length in the cellar before being released to the market.

Grape varieties
70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 10% Graciano and Mazuelo