94+ points from Robert Parker for a ‘super classic’ Rioja
Viña Cubillo Crianza 2018 (94+ points from Robert Parker) is a wine unique in its category: an entry-level wine of true luxury, and a ‘super classic’ Rioja, crafted by the century-old winery R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia.
Viña Cubillo Crianza 2018 is a handcrafted work that originates from a vintage rated as Very Good, distinguished by the freshness and elegance of the wines, and comes from old vineyards owned by the winery in Haro, in the sub-region of Rioja Alta. Its composition includes Tempranillo (65%), Garnacha (25%), Mazuelo, and Graciano. It has an ageing process equivalent to that of a Gran Reserva, with three years in oak barrels. It is clarified with egg whites and bottled unfiltered.
Founded in 1877 in Haro, the heart of Rioja wine, R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia is a unique winery worldwide, with a winemaking method that is unparalleled and maintains centuries-old traditions and techniques alive.
The winery is managed by the fourth generation of the López de Heredia family and remains faithful — with minor adjustments — to its original philosophy. The López de Heredia family consider themselves viticulturists: sourcing grapes from their own vineyards, where they favour natural methods and minimal intervention; and above all, as artisans in the winemaking process.
Consumption features
Pairing
Viña Cubillo Crianza 2018 pairs perfectly with all kinds of legumes, tapas, and assorted starters.
Viña Cubillo Crianza 2018 is a Crianza red wine with a maturation of 3 years in oak, subjected to 2 rackings per year during that time.
Vineyard
Viticulture
What does careful viticulture contribute to the character of Viña Cubillo Crianza 2018? It comes from our own vineyards, where we work with Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano following an approach focused on the provenance and balance of the grapes. No specific cultivation practices or particular tillage methods are specified, but rather a foundation of work tied to our own plots, which enhances control over the quality of the harvest.