It is always a treat to find wine that has already had time to mature. When you are dealing with a producer's current release, you have an additional layer of confidence that the wine has been properly cared for and should be in good condition.
Lopez Heredia is known for its late releases, which are consistently excellent examples of aged Rioja. This 2010 is no exception.
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.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 96 Points
The 2010 Viña Tondonia Reserva has all I expect from a Reserva from Tondonia, complexity, elegance and evolution, a developed nose with notes of forest floor and wild berries, herbs and flowers, a touch of iodine, brick dust and very fine, polished tannins. It has the seriousness and elegance of Tondonia.