Wines Rioja R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia - Viña Tondonia - 2010

Viniou Reviews

The 2010 R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Rioja is an exceptional expression of the renowned Rioja DO. This red cuvée is typically composed predominantly of Tempranillo, complemented by Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo, which together create a harmonious and complex profile. The vintage 2010 is particularly celebrated in Rioja for its balance and elegance, benefitting from ideal weather conditions throughout the growing season. The grapes come from the legendary Tondonia vineyard, which is situated along the Ebro River. The vineyard’s gravelly, limestone-rich soils contribute finesse and structuring freshness to the final wine. Vinification at López de Heredia remains resolutely traditional: the wine is aged for around six years in old American oak barrels, followed by further maturation in bottle before release, yielding profound aromatics and a tapestry of tertiary notes including dried fruits, tobacco, leather, and sweet spice over a vibrant core of cherry and plum.

La Rioja is Spain’s most celebrated wine region, nestled in the north, bordered by the Sierra Cantabria mountains and the Ebro River. The climate here is distinctly influenced by both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, granting the region sufficient rainfall and a long, stable growing season that enhances phenolic ripeness without excess heat. The soils are a mosaic of clay, limestone, and sandstone, each lending a distinctive character and helping to preserve the age-worthiness so famous in Rioja wines. The region’s history is rich, with Lopez de Heredia itself standing as one of the oldest estates, continuously upholding classic winemaking methods since the late 19th century.

This noble Rioja red is fantastically versatile with food. Its polished tannins and vibrant acidity make it a brilliant partner for traditional Spanish fare such as roast lamb with rosemary, grilled chuletillas (lamp chops), or rich oxtail stew. The subtle savoury notes and integrated oak also lend themselves to pairing with aged Manchego cheese, Iberian charcuterie, or even mushroom risotto.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for 1-2 hours is recommended to allow the nuanced bouquet and flavours to fully unfurl. The wine is drinking beautifully now but will reward further cellaring for a decade or more for those with patience.