Very little about López de Heredia has changed in the more than 130 years since its founding. It occupies the same historic cellars, and unlike most of their competitors, which outside investors now own, López de Heredia is owned. Every detail of its operation is handled by the family who founded it. The bodega is now in the capable hands of the family’s youngest generation—Maria José, Mercedes, and Julio César. Yet still, nothing changes. In fact, these three are as philosophically committed to the winery’s traditions as their parents and grandparents were before them. The Tondonia vineyard, of López de Heredia is the most spectacular in Haro, having been in the family since 1933. Situated in a shell-like depression in the terrain alongside the Ebro River, which borders the Basque Rioja, it makes up a landscape of alluvium, limestone, and poplars trees.  

2004 was an exceptional vintage in Rioja.  This is a library release from the property, and although ready to drink now, this would still make a fine addition to any cellar.  The tannins are silky; the fruit is red-fruited, bright, and tart, offering tertiary aromas and flavors of black tea, orange rind, roses & earth. 

Grapes: Tempranillo (75%), Garnacho (15%), Graciano and Mazuelo (10%)

Pairing: A perfect partner to a Leg of Lamb stuffed with wild garlic, rosemary, and anchovies