# Viña Gravonia Crianza Blanco (2016)

- **Producer:** R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Macabeo, Malvasia
- **Region:** Rioja, Spain
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €52
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** dried lemons, cashews, vanilla, honey, roasted almonds, beeswax, almond, hazelnut, white truffles, saffron

## About this wine

Viña Gravonia Crianza Blanco is a white wine from the Rioja DOCa, produced by R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia. This wine is crafted from 100% Macabeo grapes, with some sources indicating a small addition of Malvasia. The producer, R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia, is a historic estate founded in 1877, known for its traditional winemaking philosophy and dedication to its own vineyards. The wine originates from the Rioja Alta region, recognized for its quality viticulture. A distinctive feature of this wine is its extended aging process in oak, contributing to its unique character.

## Interesting facts

- Vines used for this wine are over 90 years old.
- Aged for four years in seasoned American oak barrels.
- Fermented with native yeasts in old oak vats.
- James Suckling rated the 2016 vintage 100/100.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity and medium-plus body provide a good counterpoint to richer dishes, cutting through fats and cleansing the palate. Its savory notes and subtle oak influence complement well-seasoned white meats and fish, while its complexity can stand up to dishes with creamy textures or nutty elements.

## Wine making process

The Viña Gravonia Crianza Blanco is produced using traditional methods. The grapes are fermented in large, old oak vats with native yeasts. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for four years in seasoned American oak barrels. The producer, R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia, is known for its commitment to these time-tested techniques, focusing on the expression of the vineyard and the development of wines with significant aging capacity.