At a glance

Producer

R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia

Region

Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano, Mazuelo

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$55-$80

Tasting profile

Complex bouquet with notes of dried cherries, cedar, leather, tobacco, and subtle vanilla from oak aging; palate shows balanced acidity, earthy undertones, and structured tannins

Evolution: Further development of tertiary notes, softer tannins, increased integration of oak and savory elements over next 5-10 years

At peak: Highly nuanced with silky texture, balanced acidity, and pronounced depth of flavor

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, characteristic of Rioja

Tannins

Medium to firm, refined with age

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

Excellent aging potential of 25-35 years from vintage, benefiting from slow maturation in bottle

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2036

Optimal window

2022 to 2039

Current status

Approaching early maturity; still evolving

Current condition

Shows good freshness, layered tannin structure, and complexity; suitable for drinking with some additional cellaring recommended

2011 Rioja vintage is a classic year with excellent structure and balance. The wine's traditional oak aging and high-quality vineyard sources give it a long cellaring horizon, typically 25-35 years with peak drinking expected around 15-25 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with roasted lamb, game birds, aged manchego cheese, savory stews, and mushroom risottos.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To aerate and soften tannins as well as reveal complex aromas

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Focused on minimal intervention in vineyard with integrated pest management, low chemical inputs, traditional dry farming techniques, and energy-efficient cellar practices

R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia employs traditional viticulture respectful of the environment and limits chemical usage. While not certified organic, their sustainable farming approaches combined with energy conservation in winemaking earn a solid sustainability score. The carbon footprint is moderate reflecting international distribution and packaging impact.