If I Could Buy Only One – September 12th Vintages Release

We asked our writers,“If you could buy only one wine from the September 12th, which one would it be and why?”

R. López De Heredia Tondonia Reserva 2014, Rioja, Spain
$82.95, John Hanna & Sons
David Lawrason – A wine like this immediately evokes questions about the ageing process. How is it that a 12 year old wine of such apparently delicate bearing, could have retained its ‘fruit’ freshness for so long – especially after ageing six years in barrel. It is a miracle! On top of all this, it is a delicious wine that will grace your table and invite conversation. It is a lovely, detailed, classic and genteel red showing considerable fruit, with raspberry/plum jam nicely etched by so-well meshed tobacco, cedar, spice and forest floor complexities. It is medium weight, very even and well balanced, smooth yet lively, with perfect 13% alcohol warmth. The length is excellent to outstanding. It was barrel aged six years, but remains remarkably fresh. Best now through early 2030s. It is also available in a half bottle, which may, in theory, be showing more maturity. Tasted September 2026.
Megha Jandhyala – My “only one” this week is a wine of exceptional complexity and poise; it seems to contain multitudes yet carries itself with an easy and enchanting grace. A wine of contrasting juxtapositions, the 2014 Tondonia Reserva is remarkably vibrant, despite it being a dozen years old, and feels supple and agile on one’s palate, though it is densely coded with flavour and character. It unlocks a treasure trove of fragrant memories, including summer berries and cherries, tangy plums, old books in my parents’ library, toasted coconut flakes, vanilla bean soaked in bourbon, gently toasted nutmeg and cloves, and the texture of a vintage silk-velvet couch. This is a wine that is likely to awaken an emotional response in those who are open to it. It is beautiful now but could easily be cellared for another half a dozen years or longer.

There are other ‘Only One’ picks this week that are currently only visible to our premium members, including a 95pt Maderia at only $18.95!

This complete article will be free and visible to all members 60 days after publication. We invite you to subscribe today to unlock our top picks and other Premium benefits.

Please take a moment to understand why we charge for timely recommendations.

“For the cost of a good bottle of wine we’ll help you discover hundreds of great ones.”

Use these quick links for access to all of our September 12th Top Picks in the New Release. Non-premium members can select from all release dates 60 days prior.

Lawrason’s Take – September 12th
Megha’s Picks – September 12th
Sara’s Selections – September 12th