Viña Tondonia 1987 Blanco Reserva

Wine: Viña Tondonia 1987 Blanco Reserva
Winery: R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 85% Viura, 15% Malvasía
ABV: 12%
Winemaking

The wine spent 6 months in old 60-hectoliter oak vats without temperature control to complete malolactic fermentation and settle before racking. It was aged for 6 years in seasoned 225-liter American oak barrels handcrafted by the winery's own coopers. The wine underwent two manual rackings per year. Fined with fresh egg whites and bottled directly from the barrel without filtration. Limited production of 12,000 bottles. It remained in the winery’s underground cellars for a minimum of 2 years prior to its commercial release. 

 

Tasting Notes
 

Appearance: Old-gold color, notably evolved compared to the Gran Reserva of the same vintage. It shows luminous golden and orange highlights with fine sediment at the base. Great sense of density, with thick, permanent legs (tears). 

 

Nose: Medium intensity upon opening, gaining presence as it breathes. Candied and almost overripe, with accents of raisins, roasted apple, dried apricots, honey, and candied quince. It features a citrus-driven edge of lemon brine, citronella, and coriander seeds. It opens up with hints of sweet spices, toasted egg yolk, "cabello de ángel" jam, and a curious exotic spicy trail of turmeric and incense, alongside seasoned wood and marquetry. Lacking extensive nuance and showing signs of significant bottle evolution. 

 

Palate: Supple on the palate, though it is beginning to run lean on acidity. Very classic and recognizable in style. It is perfectly drinkable, but it starts to show the first signs of fatigue—a certain lack of "grip". Settled, mature, and honeyed, it is filled with sweet sensations and a lingering trace of sugary richness. It appears to have begun its decline but is still a pleasure to drink. The finish is candied and liqueur-like. 

 

Personal Score: 88
Tasting Group Score: 90