Numanthia 2015 Termes, Toro DO

In the middle ages Toro wines were enjoyed all over Spain and beyond. Reestablished in 1933 the Toro D.O. currently has 14,000 acres planted, but Numanthia Estate has single handedly put Spain's Toro region back on the map, by producing award winning wines celebrated world wide, that have reached Icon status. The high altitude (2,000 feet) of the vineyards offers extremely favorable conditions for the grapes to mature and develop. The yields from these vines are some of the lowest in Europe averaging less that 1 ton per acre.

The Tinta de Toro grape which is a clone of Tempranillo, is very dark in color, especially these very concentrated old vines grapes, so the wine shows deep color and rich extraction. This 2015 Termes is made from grapes from vines averaging 30 year of age. Extended maceration of the grape skins and regular racking during 16 months' ageing in French oak barrels give the wine a lively combination of fruit and structure.

James Suckling scored this 94 points saying "Black as the ace of spades with great berry fruit and a lot of savory character, this is a very distinctive Toro red. Very powerful with plenty of fruit sweetness, but as the wine flows over the palate it slowly turns ever further in the savory direction. Long, beautifully balanced finish. Drink or hold."


Vinous scored this 91 points saying "Bright violet. Smoky, mineral-accented cherry and dark berry aromas are complemented by a building floral nuance. Appealingly sweet black and blue fruit flavors pick up mocha and candied violet notes as the wine opens up. Fleshy and open-knit but lively too, finishing with very good persistence, harmonious tannins and resonating dark berry character. 20% new French oak. Drinking window: 2021 - 2026"

The Wine Advocate scored this 90 points saying "Cropped from a warm and ripe year, the entry-level 2015 Termes was able to keep its poise and balance. It has balsamic aromas and flavors, with sweet fruit on the palate. It's 15% alcohol and matured in French barriques for 14 months."