At a glance

Producer

R. Lopez de Heredia

Region

Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo-dominant blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$80

Tasting profile

Earthy aromas with dried herbs, leather, cedar, red cherry and plum fruit; savory mineral undertones; firm tannins and bright acidity.

Evolution: With further aging, expect more pronounced tertiary notes of tobacco, forest floor, mushroom, and subtle balsamic layers.

At peak: Balanced mature profile with softened tannins, integrated wood, complex, nuanced bouquet and persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

High acidity providing freshness and longevity

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

30-40 years from vintage under proper conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2042

Optimal window

2025 to 2045

Current status

Approaching ideal drinking window, still youthful but accessible

Current condition

The wine is currently evolving with developing tertiary notes but retains firm tannins and fresh acidity.

Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva is renowned for its classical Rioja style with extended barrel and bottle aging before release, enabling exceptionally long aging potential. The structure, tannin, and acidity support longevity of 30-40 years, making 2030-2038 the heart of peak maturity.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, roasted game birds, mature cheeses like Manchego, and rich stews with herbs. Also pairs well with dishes featuring mushrooms and earthy flavors.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow secondary aromas to open and to soften the firm tannins present at this stage of evolution.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of dry farming techniques, minimal intervention in the vineyard, careful water management, and limited use of chemical products. Packaging uses traditional heavy glass bottles but recyclable materials.

Lopez de Heredia is known for its respect for tradition and sustainable practices, though not fully certified organic or biodynamic. Energy use is moderate with some modernizations. Water use restrained via dry farming typical in Rioja. The carbon footprint relates primarily to exporting from Spain worldwide.