1980 López de Heredia "Viña Tondonia" Rioja Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain

ABOUT THIS WINE

This Gran Reserva hails from the Viña Tondonia vineyard, a historic 100-hectare site along the Ebro River in Haro, at the heart of Rioja Alta. Composed primarily of Tempranillo, with Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo in supporting roles, the 1980 vintage underwent López de Heredia’s signature extended aging regime: nearly 10 years in neutral American oak barrels, followed by further aging in bottle before release—often decades later.

1980 was a cooler, classically styled vintage, resulting in wines with high acidity, moderate alcohol, and superb aging potential. The long barrel aging and oxidative handling lend the wine its signature patina: layers of spice, dried fruit, and evolved savoriness without losing freshness. Best enjoyed with simple, traditional fare—think roasted lamb, aged Manchego, or earthy mushroom dishes—to honor its understated depth.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Founded in 1877, López de Heredia is one of Spain’s most revered and traditional wineries, still run by the same family across four generations. Located in Haro’s famed Barrio de la Estación, the bodega is legendary for its unwavering commitment to classical winemaking: own-rooted vines, hand harvesting, wild fermentation, long aging in old barrels, and release only when the wines are deemed ready—sometimes decades after harvest.

The estate’s philosophy is one of patience, purity, and resistance to modern trends. The Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva is the epitome of this ethos: a wine not made for market demand, but for those who understand and cherish the beauty of time. It is a rare and enduring benchmark of traditional Rioja, treasured for its quiet power, longevity, and soulful transparency.