2013 López de Heredia, Viña Tondonia Reserva, Rioja, Spain

Producer: Timeless bodega founded by D Rafael López de Heredia y Landeta in 1877. They have stayed true to the winemaking traditions passed on through generations, producing age worthy wines from their prized vineyards. Maria José, Mercedes (winemaker) + Júlio César are the youngest generation committed to their ancestral methodes, including using their own cooperage in importing whole oak trunks from the Appalachian mountains in the US.

Place:  Haro, in the Rioja Alta region of Spain

Farming: Organic

Cuvee: from the most famous & spectacular vineyard, 100 ha, situated on the right bank of the river Ebro

Soil: alluvial clay & limestone

Varietal: Tempranillo 75%, Garnacho 15%, Graciano & Mazuelo 10%

Vinification: aged in barrel for 6 years, fined with egg whites

Tasting Notes: Firm tannin -   savory dried berries - tobacco leaves - silky texture