2004 López de Heredia, Viña Tondonia Gran 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

Site: Made in the best vintages from the most famous & spectacular Tondonia vineyard, 100 ha, situated on the right bank of the river Ebro.

Varietal: Tempranillo 70%, Garnacha 20%, Graciano 5%, Mazuelo 5%

Soil: alluvial clay & limestone

Winemaking: grapes are destemmed, fermented in oak vats, aged for 10 years in American oak barrels, clarified with fresh egg whites, bottled unfiltered, rested for an additional 10 years in bottle before release.  “ Gran Reservas”- ‘ a unique distinction only granted to the highest quality of wine… it is only just before bottling in the eighth year when they decide if this wine is worthy of the title’

Tasting Notes: Forest Floor – Elegant Tannin – Cedar – Licorice – Dried Cherries