At a glance

Producer

Bodegas López de Heredia

Region

Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano, Mazuelo blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$70

Tasting profile

Aromas of dried red fruit, cedar, tobacco leaf, and earthy underbrush. Palate shows structured tannins with red cherry and subtle spice.

Evolution: Fruit will integrate further with tertiary notes developing: leather, forest floor, and tobacco.

At peak: Elegant, complex, with velvety texture and nuanced tobacco, mineral, and spice notes.

Structure

Acidity

High, bright and refreshing

Tannins

Medium to firm, fine-grained

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

20-30 years+ from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2023 to 2040

Optimal window

2020 to 2039

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking period

Current condition

Showing good complexity with firm tannins softening, acidity well balanced

Bodegas López de Heredia's Viña Tondonia Reserva is known for its traditional extended aging and ability to mature gracefully over decades, benefiting from balanced acidity and robust tannic structure, making the 2011 vintage’s peak extend well into the 2030s.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with roasted lamb, aged Manchego cheese, game birds, and rich stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften tannins and open aromas after long bottle aging.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Traditional vineyard management with low intervention winemaking; emphasis on minimal chemical inputs and preserving vineyard health; uses natural cork closures

Bodegas López de Heredia emphasizes traditional and sustainable vineyard and winery practices, avoiding synthetic herbicides and pesticides. Energy use is moderate with some modernization. Packaging is classic glass with cork, which is biodegradable. While export transport adds carbon footprint, local production methods and respect for terroir contribute to a solid sustainability profile.