R. Lopez Heredia Vina Tondonia Reserva 2004 750ML

Such a beautifully aged gran reserva that shows the more traditional side of Rioja. Dried blood orange peel, white pepper, dried thyme, iron, berries, minerals, black sesame seeds and old books. So bright and firm, with a full body and an extremely bright, lengthy finish. If I bought a bottle I’d still want to keep it for another few years. Drink or hold.

A Rioja time capsule: that is the feeling you'll have when tasting the wines of López de Heredia, particularly the 2004 Gran Reserva Viña Tondonia. The 2004 is a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano, cultivated on the meander of the Ebro River in Rioja Alta. Aged for ten years in barrel and an additional ten years in bottle, this bricked wine showcases dried black fruit, licorice, hazelnut and cedar nuances, along with resin, cola and garrigue. Dry and chalky, the silky and faintly juicy flow culminates with a long-lasting finish infused with thyme notes. This beautifully aged wine reflects old-school craftsmanship—it's the essence of time and terroir.

The 2004 Viña Tondonia Reserva is a completely different story. It is a worthy follower of the 2001, the greatest of the Viña Tondonia Reservas of recent times. It has the usual blend and usual levels of alcohol and acidity, bottled after six years in oak barrels. The nose feels savory (if that's possible–umami?) and developed, with tertiary aromas and good balance between spices, leathery notes, cherries and balsamic notes of cigar box and incense. The palate is both round and crisp, with refined tannins. It has very good balance with subtle acidity and very good persistence.

Slightly damp, earthy and cool aromas introduce this traditional Rioja. In the mouth, pinchy tannins and tomatoey acidity pave the way for flavors of raisin, peppery spice and leafy herbs. A long steady finish is full of life.

Savory flavors of tea, mushroom and leather frame dried cherry and orange peel notes in this traditional-style red. Features a smooth, polished texture, with light tannins and bright acidity. Harmonious and graceful.