Viniou Reviews
The 2013 Viña Tondonia Reserva from R. López de Heredia is a jewel of traditional Rioja winemaking. This celebrated red is a blend typical of the region, dominated by Tempranillo, often complemented by Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuelo, though the precise proportions are a closely held secret of the house. Raised in aged American oak barrels for at least six years before further bottle ageing, this wine is the epitome of patience and meticulous craftsmanship. The resulting profile displays elegant maturity: delicate notes of dried cherry, red plum, leather, tobacco and spices, delicately shaped by soft, integrated tannins and a persistent, savoury finish.
La Rioja, nestled in north-central Spain, is famed for its rolling vineyards bordered by the River Ebro. The climate here is a unique confluence of Atlantic, Mediterranean, and continental influences, which, paired with a diverse range of soils—clay-limestone, alluvial, and ferrous-clay—creates ideal growing conditions for nuanced and ageworthy wines. The Viña Tondonia vineyards, in particular, benefit from their proximity to the river, contributing both cooling breezes and morning mists, synonymous with the evolution of complexity in the wines. R. López de Heredia is one of the region’s oldest bodegas, established in 1877, and remains a bastion of classical methods and unwavering quality.
For food pairings, this Rioja Reserva shines alongside traditional Spanish fare such as roast lamb with rosemary, slow-cooked pork cheeks, or a classic tortilla española. Its savoury complexity also pairs beautifully with hard sheep’s cheese like Manchego, grilled vegetables, or mushroom-based dishes that highlight its earthy undertones. For a more contemporary approach, try it with umami-rich dishes such as risotto with aged parmesan or duck confit.
To enjoy it at its best, decant the wine for at least an hour to allow the tertiary aromas to unfold fully. Serve at 16-18°C; this slightly cool room temperature preserves its refined structure and lets the subtle spice and fruit interplay emerge elegantly.
