R. LOPEZ DE HEREDIA 'VIÑA TONDONIA' RESERVA RIOJA, SPAIN 2010

Varietals: 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacho, 5% Graciano, and 5% Mazuelo

Region: Rioja, Spain

Tastes Like: Vibrant red leading slightly towards amber. Light fresh texture with notes of vanilla, red cherry and dried berry aromas. Rich, plush, very dry, smooth and developed yet still fresh, with firm tannins, good balance and great length.

Pairs With: Barbecue grilled-meats, Polenta or Grits, Steak Burritos.

What the Pros Say: James Suckling - 97 Points:  “This is as complex and savory as the rest of the Viña Tondonia wines, but also shows a tad more depth, with a hint of black plum and blue fruit on top of the orange rind, iron, tobacco and earthy spices. Expect some cedar and truffle to develop in the future. Juicy, zesty and tight, with a dusty tannins and bright berry fruit on the medium-to full-bodied palate. Drink or hold."