At a glance

Producer

La Rioja Alta, S.A. (Lopez de Heredia)

Region

Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Viura (Macabeo)

Wine type

White

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50 - $70

Tasting profile

Citrus peel, green apple, almond, lightly oxidative nuttiness, wet stone minerality

Evolution: Will develop richer hazelnut, honeyed complexity, and tertiary oxidative nuances over the next decade

At peak: Balanced vibrant acidity with complex oxidative character, creamy texture, and long finish

Structure

Acidity

High, characteristic of Viura and age-worthy style

Tannins

Low, typical for white wines

Alcohol

Approx. 12.5% ABV

Aging potential

20+ years under proper cellar conditions, excellent longevity for a white Rioja

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2041

Optimal window

2023 to 2044

Current status

Approaching early maturity, still developing complexity

Current condition

Shows freshness with evolving tertiary notes, some bottle variation possible

Lopez de Heredia's Gravonia Blanco uses traditional oxidative aging in old oak barrels creating age-worthy style. The Viura grape's naturally high acidity combined with extended lees contact and slow maturation allows for long cellaring with gradual complexity unfolding over 20+ years.

Food pairing

Ideal with Iberian ham, aged cheeses, seafood stews, grilled white fish, and dishes with nutty or creamy sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C / 50-54°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Low chemical intervention, traditional dry-farming techniques, minimal pesticide use; energy use managed with modern cellar upgrades

Lopez de Heredia follows traditional, low-intervention farming and winemaking emphasizing natural yeast fermentation and minimal additives. While not certified organic or biodynamic, they maintain sustainable vineyard management and energy-efficient cellar practices. Their packaging is classic with heavy glass bottles, which impacts carbon footprint slightly. Overall, they have a positive sustainability profile typical for a historic, family-run estate prioritizing longevity and quality over mass production.