R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia is a renowned winery with a rich history located in the Rioja region of Spain. The winery was established in 1877 by Rafael Lopez de Heredia y Landeta, and it has been run by the same family for four generations. The family's commitment to tradition and quality has made Vina Tondonia one of the most distinguished wineries in Spain.
The winery is located in the small village of Haro, an area known for its exceptional vineyard sites. Vina Tondonia owns over 100 hectares of vineyards, which are mainly planted with classic Rioja grape varieties such as Tempranillo, Grenache, Graciano, and Mazuelo. The vineyards are meticulously maintained and farmed using organic and biodynamic practices, which allows the grapes to express the unique terroir of the region.
Vina Tondonia is known for its commitment to traditional winemaking methods. The wines are aged for extended periods of time in the winery's ancient cellars, which date back to the 19th century. These cellars provide the perfect conditions for the wines to mature, with constant temperature and humidity levels. The aging process takes place in oak barrels, both American and French, and the wines are only released when the winery believes they are ready to be enjoyed.
One of the most iconic wines produced by Vina Tondonia is the 'Vina Cubillo' Crianza. This wine is made from a blend of Tempranillo, Grenache, and Mazuelo grapes sourced from the winery's own vineyards. The grapes are fermented in large oak vats and then aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years before release.
The 2015 vintage of 'Vina Cubillo' Crianza is particularly notable. It is a beautifully balanced and elegant wine, showcasing the typical characteristics of a Rioja Crianza. It displays a deep ruby color with aromas of red fruits, spice, and earth. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with well-integrated tannins and a long, persistent finish.
Vina Tondonia has gained a reputation for producing age-worthy wines that can be enjoyed for decades. The careful attention to detail and commitment to traditional methods have allowed the winery to create wines of exceptional quality and complexity. With each vintage, Vina Tondonia continues to showcase the unique terroir of Rioja and solidify its position as one of Spain's most prestigious wineries.