Wine: Viña Bosconia 1995 Gran ReservaWinery: R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 80% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacho, 5% Mazuelo and Graciano.
ABV: 12% vol.
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 80% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacho, 5% Mazuelo and Graciano.
ABV: 12% vol.
Winemaking
The wine spent six months in wooden vats to complete malolactic fermentation. It was aged for 10 years in seasoned American oak barrels (225-liter) handcrafted by the winery’s own coopers. The wine underwent two manual rackings (trasiegos) per year and was clarified with fresh egg whites. Bottled directly from the cask without filtration. A special lacquer seal was applied to the neck to ensure optimal bottle evolution and protect it from contamination. Limited production of 8,500 bottles (75 cl).
The wine spent six months in wooden vats to complete malolactic fermentation. It was aged for 10 years in seasoned American oak barrels (225-liter) handcrafted by the winery’s own coopers. The wine underwent two manual rackings (trasiegos) per year and was clarified with fresh egg whites. Bottled directly from the cask without filtration. A special lacquer seal was applied to the neck to ensure optimal bottle evolution and protect it from contamination. Limited production of 8,500 bottles (75 cl).
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Reddish-ruby color of medium-high depth, noticeably darker than the
preceding 1991 vintage. Pristine and brilliant, showing garnet and
coppery reflections. The rim is narrow and orange, distinctly marked
against the meniscus.
Nose:
Immediate and highly expressive upon opening. It displays a curious
initial herbaceous streak—celery leaves, nettles, ivy, and sage—which
gradually softens into mentholated notes of eucalyptus and lemon drops.
Intensely perfumed and increasingly floral, it is brimming with withered
flowers, dried orange peel, spices, and dried ginger over a subtle
backdrop of noble woods, Russian leather, and fine earthy tones (walnut
bark, humus). It evolves slowly over several hours, becoming
increasingly "bosky" and autumnal. It grips the senses with a
combination of subtlety and force; seemingly light and fresh, yet
devastating in its impact.
Palate:
Savory and bursting with energy, featuring fine, incredibly vivid
tannins. The acidity is almost angular, providing a tight, focused
structure. It reaffirms a profile of fresh, restrained, and tart red
fruit, complemented by elegant wood nuances. A wine that leaves a
lasting impression; another masterpiece from López de Heredia. While
already immensely enjoyable, it cries out for further cellaring. One of
the most expressive and vintage-driven Bosconias we have ever tasted.
Commentary
This 1995 feels like a return to the monumental Viña Bosconia style of 1942, 1947, or 1954. It is currently a mere mirage of what it will become in the future—a wine to be locked away and bequeathed to grandchildren. María José’s influence is undeniable here. If the white Tondonias are currently in their golden age, it is now the turn of the reds. A definitive recommendation: buy and cellar by the case.
This 1995 feels like a return to the monumental Viña Bosconia style of 1942, 1947, or 1954. It is currently a mere mirage of what it will become in the future—a wine to be locked away and bequeathed to grandchildren. María José’s influence is undeniable here. If the white Tondonias are currently in their golden age, it is now the turn of the reds. A definitive recommendation: buy and cellar by the case.
Personal Score: 95
Tasting Group Average: 94
Tasting Group Average: 94
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