2010 R. López de Heredia Rioja Reserva Viña Tondonia, Spain, Wine Review

As traditional as Rioja gets. This is a blend of 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacho and 5% each Graciano and Mazuelo.  Garnet in color, mostly clear and bright.  The nose is deep with cherries, tobacco, wild thyme, dill and spice.  Medium bodied.  Great balance.  On the palate, this is complex and layered.  Flavors of cherries, slight cherry cough drop, fresh herbs and spices.  Long finish.  This shows just a bit of maturity and no doubt will drink well for another ten to twenty years.  It is nice on its own but will be better with food.  This would be perfect with a steak but also Roasted Root Vegetables.