2005 R. López de Heredia Rioja Reserva Viña Tondonia - Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alta, Rioja (9/27/2020)
After a corked 2001 Rayas Pignan, I needed a serious pick-me-up. The LdH delivered that and more. An initial rush of cassis fruit was followed by dusty herbs and leather tones. The structure snuck up on me like a ninja, tying my tongue in a Gordian knot that releases within moments. All it takes is time. Given the depth and the level of structure, this would seem to be a long-term prospect.