2007 'T' Toro, Spain Tempranillo

About This Wine

In France, it’s Bordeaux. In America, it’s Napa Valley. In Spain, it’s Toro.

“It” is red wine country — or more specifically, big, bold red wine country. And while the “big reds” of Bordeaux and Napa are based on Cabernet Sauvignon, the “big red” of Toro is Tempranillo, known locally as Tinto de Toro.

Toro is situated in the western part of Spain’s Castilla y Leon region, less than a hour from the Portuguese border. There are a number of historic towns in the area (including Salamanca, Leon and Zamora), but there’s no question that this is farm country. And a good number of the farmers grow winegrapes — primarily Tempranillo.

The featured “T” wine is a tasty example of both the variety and the Toro style of winemaking. There’s nothing subtle about it; the aromas and flavors are assertive and engaging, and the finish seemingly begs for another sip. In our book, this “T” gets an “A.”

About Tempranillo

Its aromas and flavors often combine elements of berryish fruit, herbaceousness, and an earthy-leathery minerality. Rarely bottled as a stand-alone varietal, but frequently used as the base variety in blends.

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:100% Tempranillo (a.k.a. Tinto de Toro)
• Grape Source:Toro Area of Spain’s Castilla y Leon Region
• Aromas & Flavors:Red Fruits, Plum, Leather, Spice, Bacon and Cocoa
• When to Drink:Now Through 2012
• Food Pairing Suggestiongrilled meats, stews and sausages.

Member Ratings

Recipes.

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  Pan Fried Lamb Chops This recipe, which makes 4 servings, features flavors that can be enjoyed with virtually any red wine. Turn it into a complete meal with a side dish jasmine rice. Get The Recipe
  

  Tomato Pesto Pasta A wonderful match with Cabernet Sauvignon, this recipe helps bring out the fruitful quality of the wine. It also matches nicely with other red wines, and serves 4. Get The Recipe
  

  Tuscan Style Roasted Game Hens If you're looking for a change from turkey or ham this holiday season, try this easy-to-prepare dish that matches well with both white and red wines. It serves 6... Get The Recipe
  

  Smoked Salmon Penne Pasta In a world of "anything goes" food-and-wine pairing, we're always on the lookout for recipes that match well with either white or red wines. This is one such recipe, and it makes two servings... Get The Recipe