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From one of the great historic Rioja estates epitomizing "timeless, artisan winemaking" according to the Wine Advocate's Neal Martin, the outstanding 97pt 2010 Lopez de Heredia Tondonia Reserva Rioja boasts energetic, spiced red fruit and bright, tangy acidity, a hand crafted, cult favorite Tempranillo aged for over 10 years now offered at an incredible price.
Continuously owned and operated by the family who established it since 1877, Lopez de Heredia pioneered the single vineyard wine in Rioja, crafting the 2010 Tondonia Reserva from the family's sustainably farmed 100-hectare flagship Tondonia vineyard in Rioja Alta. Averaging over 40 years of age with some over 100 years, the Tempranillo vines are planted on alluvial clay and limestone soils situated alongside the Ebro River bordering Rioja Alavesa. Accessed through a labyrinth of vaulted underground corridors and staircases, some dating back over a century, the massive mold and cobweb-laced cellars of Lopez de Heredia stretch over the length of two football fields, home to well-aged oak vats ranging from 60 up to 640 hectoliters (nearly 17,000 gallons) that play a key role in the natural fermentation of their wines. After co-fermenting the blend of mostly Tempranillo with Garnacha and small amounts of Graciano and Mazuelo, the 2010 Tondonia Reserva was aged for six years in custom crafted American oak barrels, half of which were seasoned for over 10 years, exerting a nuanced, integrated influence of oak before undergoing extended bottle aging, enhancing aromas and smoothing tannins.
Described as "the poster child for traditional Rioja winemaking" by Vinous critic Josh Raynolds with demand exceeding supply, Rioja fans will want to stock up on the classically styled 97pt 2010 Lopez de Heredia Tondonia Reserva while it lasts and enjoy this expertly crafted, value priced Rioja from a sensational vintage, a testament to the timeless practices of this renowned estate. | 
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