2010 Numanthia Toro

(94 points)  The 2010 Numanthia comes from a cooler vintage than the 2009 – a season when Manuel Louzada told me that he had to wear a pullover in the vineyard during picking! It is aged for 21 months in new French oak. The bouquet demonstrates more fruit concentration and clarity than the 2009, the 0.5% less alcohol making a tangible difference. The aromatics are more Medoc-like than the 2009. The palate is full-bodied with mouth-gripping tannins, yet it has a silky smooth texture. There is real attack on the mid-palate, perhaps a little more vigor and tension with hints of graphite and sous-bois towards the strict finish. This is due to be launched in September 2013 and should be at the top of any Toro-lovers’ list – maybe even above Termanthia? Drink 2018-2028+

Wine Advocate #206

Apr 2013