Viña Tondonia Blanco Reserva 2011

Complex, really finely nuanced, oxidative notes make this so attractive. Everything is very subtle here. A mixture of salted almonds, cashews, minerals, dried lemon peel, nougat and treacle. A full-bodied, slightly chewy Rioja that’s full of flavor. Concentrated, yet so zesty and taut. Extremely long and zingy finish. The longer you taste it, the more the wine will talk to you. Delicious now, but can hold for a decade, if not more.

It's impossible to pick a winner in a taste off between the 2010 and 2011 releases of this breath-taking white. Reflecting the hotter growing season in the latter year, this is a little bolder and more concentrated, but with similar levels of extract and complexity. Almond paste, honey and sea salt flavours are supported by tangy acidity. 2023-35.

The 2011 Viña Tondonia Blanco Reserva reflects a warm and ripe year, and the wine is more evolved and already hints at some caramel and honey. It has a mellow palate without the vibrancy of the 2010 I tasted next to it. This wine matured in used, ancient American oak barrels for six years. 19,000 bottles were filled in November 2019.