Viniou Reviews
The 2012 Viña Tondonia from López de Heredia is an exquisite Rioja red wine that exemplifies the rich traditions of this esteemed Spanish wine region. Crafted primarily from the Tempranillo grape, this vintage typically includes a small blend of Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo, which together offer a complex and harmonious profile. The terroir of Viña Tondonia, with its calcareous clay soils, plays an essential role in developing the wine’s distinct character. López de Heredia is renowned for its traditional approach to winemaking, including long ageing periods in American oak barrels, resulting in a wine that gains complexity and depth over time.
La Rioja, located in northern Spain, enjoys a favourable climate for viticulture, with its mix of continental and Mediterranean influences. The region benefits from sufficient rainfall and temperature variations that nurture the vines to produce grapes with balanced acidity and sugar levels. La Rioja is also steeped in history, with vineyards being cultivated since Roman times, making it one of the most prestigious wine-producing areas in the world.
When it comes to food pairing, the 2012 Viña Tondonia's structure and elegance are well-suited to a wide range of dishes. The wine's earthy and leathery notes, complemented by dried fruit and spice, make it an ideal companion for rich meats such as roasted lamb or beef. Traditional Spanish dishes such as patatas riojanas, a spicy potato and chorizo stew, or bacalao a la riojana, a salted cod dish, also harmonise beautifully with this wine.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Rioja at a temperature of 16-18°C. This range allows the wine's intricate aromas to unfold, enhancing its elegant bouquet and ensuring a truly memorable tasting experience. Consider decanting it for about an hour before serving to fully appreciate its complexity and maturity.
