Vina Tondonia 1964 Lopez de Heredia

Professional reviews

Robert Parker (94)

The red wines began with two 1964s, a vintage widely thought to be one of the great years of the 20th century in Rioja. The 1964 Vina Tondonia is cherry red in color with fragrant spice and cassis notes in the complex perfume. Sweet, savory, elegant and impeccably balanced, it is a wine of great finesse and character.

A visit to the venerable Bodega Lopez de Heredia, located in the Rioja Alta capital of Haro, is akin to entering a time machine taking you back 100 years. Construction of the Bodega began in 1877 and continues without any apparent changes to the present day. The winery is operated by the voluble Maria Jose Lopez de Heredia, her sister Mercedes, and their father Pedro, still active into his 80s. All of the wines are produced from estate grown bush vines. Tondonia and Bosconia are two different vineyards; Bosconia has a larger percentage of Tempranillo and a different orientation.

Winespectator (95)

Extraordinary. Sweet vanilla and dried berry aromas and flavors have an unexpected richness in this vibrant red. Impressive for its balance of concentration and elegance; firm tannins meld with a creamy texture. The long finish defines traditional Rioja at its best.