R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva 1976

Tasting note: R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva 1976 (Rioja, Spain)

Appearance:
An elegant, translucent ruby red colour with tea-deep mahogany and orange reflections, typical of mature Rioja Gran Reservas. The colour betrays decades of bottle ageing, but in no way appears fatigued, instead radiating a warm, timeless brilliance.

Bouquet:
A complex, multi-layered bouquet that begins with dried morellos, prunes and figs, but quickly opens up to tertiary aromas of old leather, tobacco leaf, sandalwood and a subtle vanilla spice (a reference to decades of oak barrel ageing). Notes of truffle, dried herbs (thyme, laurel) and a mineral underpinning of chalk and forest soil hover in between. A hint of balsamic vinegar and candied citrus fruits round off the picture.

Palate:
A wine of hypnotic balance and texture! The lively acidity supports the silky body like an invisible scaffold, while mature flavours of dates, walnut, liquorice and tobacco play around the senses. The tannins are fully integrated, almost weightless, and leave behind a hint of salty mineral freshness and delicate smoke. Despite its age, the structure is surprisingly dynamic - a testament to López de Heredia's perfect craftsmanship.

Finish:
An endlessly long finish that oscillates between ripe dark chocolate, cardamom, dried roses and a subtle umami note (ripe parmesan, mushroom powder). The elegance remains dominant until the final finish.

Overall rating:
A monumental Rioja that epitomises the DNA of the Viña Tondoniaterroir and the philosophy of the bodega: Patience, tradition and the ability to translate time into flavours. The 1976 Tondonia Gran Reserva is not a wine, but an archive - a living document of Rioja culture. Despite its 45+ years, it radiates an almost youthful freshness, while the tertiary flavours develop a meditative depth.

Drinking recommendation:
Decant carefully to separate any sediment or pour gently straight from the bottle. Serving temperature: 16-17 °C. Perfect as a solo contemplation wine or accompanied by slow-cooked lamb, mushroom risotto or mature Manchego.

Other:
The 1976 vintage was a harmonious but not opulent year in Rioja - ideal for the delicate, long-lasting style of López de Heredias. The Gran Reserva matured for over 8 years in American oak barrels and decades in the bottle. Today it is one of the most sought-after classics in the region; each bottle is a precious relic that preserves the magic of traditional winemaking.

Rating scale: ✮✮✮✮✮ (transcendent/timeless)