2003 Bodegas Numanthia-Termes Toro Termes

[dananne]

This is the bottom of a three-tier line from Numanthia, with the Toro being next up, and the Numanthia at the top. Prices rise accordingly, as well, with this one running about $23.

An opaque purple-red in color, it sat in decanter for 30 minutes before 1st pour and throughout evening, but that wasn't long enough for this thing to show much past the formidable tannins at this stage. I knew it was too early to pop it, but I wanted to try it when it's still on the shelves to see if I should buy a few to lay down awhile. However, that plan was faulty in that it was almost too difficult to get a feel for how it'll develop. There were some dark fruits in there somewhere, some plummy flavors, dark chocolate, a touch of vanilla on the finish. Still, it was tough to see the forest through the tannin trees, as it were. 100% Tinta de Toro (Tempranillo) from 30-yr old ungrafted vines. Alc. 14.5%.