2012 R. Lopez de Heredia, Rioja, Tondonia Reserva - Magnum

R. López de Heredia stands as a guardian of tradition, adhering strictly to the winemaking methods established at their founding in the 1880s. Working with organic, estate-owned fruit and native yeasts, they craft wines of singular authenticity. Their masterpiece is Viña Tondonia, a spectacular vineyard of over 100 hectares situated in a shell-shaped depression on the right bank of the Ebro. Here, alluvial clay and limestone soils naturally impart the acidity and nerve required for long aging.

The 2012 vintage, rated 'Very Good,' overcame a drought-impacted season thanks to crucial late-September rains, which ensured excellent health and balanced ripeness in the grapes. A blend led by Tempranillo with Garnacho, Mazuelo, and Graciano, this Reserva was honed by prolonged aging in American oak. The result is a wine of firm structure and persistent acidity—a classic Tondonia built for the long haul.