Bodegas Vatan - Toro Vatan Arena 2016

Vatan Arena is a singular expression of one of the most spectacular ungrafted vineyards in Toro. During the Middle Ages, Toro was Spain's most famous red winemaking region, and was mentioned in literature by Alfonso IX (King of León, 12th c.), Juan Ruiz the Archpriest of Hita, Quevedo, Luis de Góngora, and Miguel de Cervantes. These wines also accompanied Spanish explorers to the new world. D.O. Toro was resuscitated in 1997 by Bodega Numanthia-Termes, founded by Jorge Ordóñez and the Eguren family.

"Showing even better than when I tasted it last year, the 2016 Vatan (100% Tinta de Toro) is still a baby and sports a deep purple color as well as blockbuster notes of blackcurrants, melted licorice, violets, ground pepper, and earth. It starts out tight and backward on the palate but slowly opens with air. It’s full-bodied, opulent, and powerful, yet still stays light on its feet, balanced, and lively. It still needs another 2-3 years and is going to evolve for 15-20 years or more." - 95 points, James Suckling

Producer: Bodegas Vatan

Country: Spain

Region: Castilla y León

Varietal: Tempranillo

Appellation: Toro

Vintage: 2016

Size: 750ml