Numanthia Termes 2021

The entry-level 2021 Termes wants to be an approachable and easier-to-understand varietal expression of the Tinta de Toro/Tempranillo sourced from younger vines (25 to 50 years old). It's ripe at 15% alcohol, juicy and fruit-driven, with a tender mouthfeel and fine tannins. Forty percent of the barrels used for the aging were 400-liter ones, and only 20% of them were new. The élevage lasted for 14 months. 142,500 bottles produced. It was bottled in July 2023.

Fresh and poised, with concentrated blackberry paste and black plum fruit laced with an alluring thread of anise, sandalwood, violet, thyme and tar aromatics. This is finely balanced, with fine-grained tannins emerging to firm the lingering finish. Drink now through 2031. 12,250 cases made, 8,000 cases imported.

The 2021 Termes, aged 14 months in French oak (20% new, half 400 liters), displays a garnet red hue. This wine exudes aromas of cherries, undergrowth, and a balsamic undertone with hints of dried flowers. Dry, intense and taut, the freshly reactive tannins are mellow in the rich mid-palate. This is a delicious and authentic Toro red.