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R. López de Heredia: profiling the iconic Rioja bodega

Simon Field MW takes a look at the iconic Rioja Alta estate whose philosophy focuses on a blend of 'tradition and tradition'.

The Barrio de la Estación in Haro is a wine lover’s paradise; think the Avenue de Champagne with a more human touch!

Among the jostling excitement of so many famous names, so close together (Muga, La Rioja Alta, Roda, CVNE among others), one landmark stands out; the striking scarlet tower inscribed with the name López de Heredia.

Known locally, in Basque, as the Txori Toki (meaning bird tower), the edifice was put up under instruction of the eponymous founder Don Rafael López de Heredia in 1877, and has since 1886 adorned the labels of this fantastically special Rioja.


Scroll down for Simon Field MW’s López de Heredia tasting notes and scores


Why so special?

Well, in a world where virtually every wine producer describes a philosophy in terms of a blend of tradition and innovation, López de Heredia can make a very good claim to be the only producer whose philosophy focuses on a blend of tradition and tradition.


Simon Field MW’s top 10 López de Heredia wines


See also:

Rioja gran reserva: Panel tasting results

The best Rioja vintages to drink now

Why do bottles of Rioja have gold mesh – Ask Decanter

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