2005 R. López de Heredia Rioja Reserva Viña Tondonia- Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alta, Rioja (1/25/2022)
A year and a half ago I thought this would need a lot more time. Now it seems more ready to go than any other recent Tondonia. Still showing plenty of that dusty cherry fruit as well as the leathery, herbal accents, but it has gotten notably softer on the back end, and drinks quite well. Not so long ago it had more of a bite. I doubt it is going anywhere soon, but if someone wants to open a recent LdH Reserva this would be a good choice.
I found the 2008 Tondonia pretty drinkable a couple of months ago.
And I had the 2010 Bosconia on Friday, which was lovely – quite Burgundian, with bright reddish fruit and good acidity. Really a pleasure. And with lots of years ahead of it.
All of these wines seem to be 90/91 on Cellar Tracker. I have tasted six of these wines and like but don’t love them. La Rioja Alta are much better for the money in my opinion.