Lopez de Heredia 2012 Vina Tondonia Rioja Reserva Magnum 1.5L

Winemaker Notes

The nose of the 2012 Tondonia Tinto Reserva is gloriously open, perfumed and fine. Gentle aromas of jamón and cured leather mingle with subtle notes of raspberry tea and a touch of musky cedar spice. A sweet red cherry compote top note comes through, but, above all, this is remarkably scented, floral and mineral-pure Tondonia. 

The palate is incredibly fresh, with well-defined red fruit and a vibrating hint of orange zest at the back. This is a more accessible and less dense style than the previous two vintages, but that is more than compensated for by its superb poise and sense of energy. Reminiscent of the lovely 2009 in its charm, the wine dances on the palate towards the focused, pure finish. Delicious.

Critical Acclaim

96pts 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 now.

95pts 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 a nice balance between alcohol and polyphenols, making it very apt for the ageing 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. It has a textbook Tondonia nose and profile.

1.5L