White dry
López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Blanco Gran Reserva Rioja 2004 is one of the most iconic white wines of Spain, reflecting the history of not only Rioja, but also the entire classical winemaking. López de Heredia is one of the oldest and most authentic names in Rioja, producing wines in the same, slow, handmade way since the end of the 19th century. Viña Tondonia Blanco Gran Reserva 2004 is a particularly long-aged white wine, released only from exceptional harvests.
Made from 90% Viura and 10% Malvasía grapes grown in the famous Viña Tondonia vineyard, located on the terraces of the Ebro River, near the city of Haro. The wine was aged for 10 years in American oak barrels, and then rested in cellars for another decade before release.
In the glass, a golden color with amber hues opens. The aroma is a rich, subtly oxidative combination: dried fruits, almonds, honey, waxy and nutty notes, a subtle smoky spice. The taste is deep, dry, but rich - soft acidity, creamy texture, long-lasting aftertaste with nuances of honey, toast and spices.
This is a white Rioja wine, the maturity of which is equal to the best white wines of old Europe - classic, aristocratic, with a unique style.
Serving temperature 10–12 °C. Goes well with grilled fish, lobster, seafood, mushroom dishes, poultry, creamy sauces and aged cheeses.
What a vinous white that’s reticent and full of power and depth. Aromas of butterscotch, waxed lemons, macadamia nuts, saffron and honey, and there is also something intricately smoky with roasted sweet potato. Full-bodied but there is no heft, with lots of brightness. I like the phenolic twist at the end, before a persistent finish that goes on for almost a minute. Incredible. A true beauty. This was aged for 10 years in old barrels before bottling. Drinkable now, but will age really beautifully over the next 10 to 20 years.
López de Heredia – one of the oldest and most prestigious wineries in Spain, founded in 1880 by Don Rafael López de Heredia. For more than 140 years, this family estate has become a true symbol of Rioja, renowned for its unwavering commitment to traditional winemaking. Unlike many others, the estate has always worked exclusively with its own vineyards, ensuring full quality control and authentic terroir expression.
Wine Style
López de Heredia wines are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and remarkable longevity.
These wines stand as proof that a truly traditional style can remain timeless and relevant today.
Authentic Winemaking Methods
The estate follows methods established in the 19th century. Fermentation takes place in 72 large oak vats, some of which have been in use since the winery’s founding. Wines are then aged for extended periods in handmade American oak barrels, providing finesse, depth, and distinctive structure. All barrels are crafted in the winery’s own cooperage, preserving independence and authenticity.
Prestigious Vineyards
López de Heredia owns 170 hectares of vineyards in Rioja Alta. Among them, the renowned Viña Tondonia (founded in 1913) is considered one of the most iconic sites in all of Rioja. Other notable vineyards include Viña Bosconia, Viña Cubillo, and Viña Gravonia, each contributing unique character and enhancing the winery’s reputation for excellence.
Aging and Drinking Window
One of the hallmarks of López de Heredia is its extraordinary aging process. Wines are kept in oak barrels far longer than usual – often 6 to 10 years – and once bottled, they may continue to mature in the cellars for several more decades. While approachable in their youth, these wines reveal their true greatness with age – a timeless expression of Rioja that never goes out of style.