Arrival week of November 9th.

Few producers have shaped the identity of Rioja quite like R. López de Heredia. Founded in Haro in 1877, this remarkable family estate continues to make wine much as it did over a century ago. Long ageing in old oak, traditional winemaking and an extraordinary amount of patience remain at the heart of everything they do. Viña Tondonia is perhaps the greatest expression of this philosophy, a wine that has become one of the true benchmarks of traditional Rioja.

The 2014 comes from a challenging vintage, with unpredictable weather and a difficult harvest requiring careful selection in the vineyards. Yet López de Heredia has always had a remarkable ability to produce wines of character and elegance in less straightforward years. Made predominantly from Tempranillo, with Garnacha and small proportions of Graciano and Mazuelo, the wine was fermented using indigenous yeasts before spending years maturing in the estate's old oak barrels and cellars.

After almost a decade of patient ageing, the result is a wonderfully expressive Rioja. Dried cherries, wild strawberries and rose petals meet tobacco, leather, sweet spice and the unmistakable earthy complexity that makes mature Tondonia so special. There is plenty happening here, but nothing feels excessive.

The palate is beautifully refined, with fine, silky tannins, vibrant acidity and layers of savoury red fruit. Notes of dried herbs, cedar, forest floor and delicate spice unfold with air, leading to a long, elegant finish. There is a wonderful freshness running through the wine, giving it a sense of energy despite its extended maturation.

A beautiful reminder of why traditional Rioja remains so compelling. Few wines manage to combine this level of maturity, freshness and complexity with such effortless drinkability. Already a pleasure to drink, with many years of life ahead.

Wine Advocate (Robert Parker) 95 points (Luis Gutiérrez)

Luis Gutiérrez praises the 2014 for its balance, elegance and remarkable freshness, highlighting its polished structure and the way the wine combines maturity with energy. A beautifully composed vintage of Viña Tondonia with excellent ageing potential.