2005 Viña Tondonia Tinto, Reserva, Bodegas R. López de Heredia, Rioja, Spain

Due to limited quantities, this wine has been restricted to 1 bottle per customer.

Made from 75% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacho (yes, not Garnacha) and a 10% combination of Graciano and Mazuelo, this is an immediately seductive wine with lifted aromas that entice the palate of macerated red berries and a touch of cured meats. The wine leaves a scent in the glass that is really quite magical, drawing you into a succulent palate which is broader and richer than its predecessor. Despite its six years in barrel and a further six in bottle, the 2005 Tinto Reserva manages to retain a core of rich red fruit which is perfectly complemented by the more mature, tertiary characters of its age. This is beautiful Tondonia with the same open feel as the 2001 and would be supremely enjoyable now whilst waiting for the 2004 to lose the last hint of its austerity. Don’t be fooled though, as with all great Tondonia Tinto Reservas the 2005 promises to hold its allure for many years to come.

Catriona Felstead MW, Spain Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (July 2017)

The 2005 Viña Tondonia Reserva is immediately appealing, exhibiting aromas of baked plums and cherries, Asian spice and tea leaves. Silky tannins are woven across the generous palate, revealing great depth of flavour from a core of muddled forest fruit to a layer of sweet spice, which is complemented by an underlying meatiness. Lovely richness and texture across the palate which is seamlessly balanced by the notable acidity, a trademark of all great Riojas, and finishes with a long, spicy finish. Archetypal traditional Rioja which is open and enjoyable now yet has the spark which will allow it to unravel further complexities over the coming decade and beyond. May be worth picking up a case or two to enjoy this at any point between 2018 – 2027. 

Chris Lamb, Private Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd