Numanthia Termes is a renowned winery located in the Toro region of Spain. When you think of Toro, imagine a picturesque landscape with rolling hills and vineyards stretching along the south bank of the Duero River. It is in this beautiful setting that Numanthia Termes has established its four vineyards, each with its own unique characteristics and terroir.
I had the pleasure of visiting Numanthia Termes during a trip to Spain a couple of years ago. As a sommelier and brewer, I was fascinated by the winery's commitment to producing exceptional wines that reflect the true essence of the Toro region. The vineyards, which cover a total of 120 hectares, are meticulously maintained, and the attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the winemaking process.
One of the things that sets Numanthia Termes apart is its dedication to preserving the heritage of the region. The winery works closely with local farmers and growers, ensuring that the grapes used in their wines are of the highest quality. The vineyards are planted with old, low-yielding vines, some of which are over a century old. These vines produce grapes with concentrated flavors and complexity, resulting in wines that are rich, powerful, and full-bodied.
Toro is known for its extreme climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The combination of intense sunlight and cool nights helps to develop the grapes' flavors and aromas, giving the wines of Numanthia Termes their distinctive character. The sandy soils in the region also play a crucial role in shaping the wines. They allow for excellent drainage, forcing the vines to dig deep into the ground in search of water and nutrients. This struggle for survival ultimately leads to grapes with great concentration and depth.
At Numanthia Termes, the winemaking process is a delicate balance of tradition and innovation. The grapes are hand-harvested and sorted, ensuring that only the best fruit makes its way into the winery. Fermentation takes place in small, temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the grapes' natural flavors. The wines are then aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels, adding complexity and structure.
The result of this meticulous craftsmanship is a range of wines that truly showcase the unique terroir of the Toro region. The flagship wine, Numanthia, is a bold and powerful expression of the local Tinta de Toro grape variety. It exudes aromas of dark fruits, spice, and tobacco, with a velvety texture and a long, lingering finish. The Termes wine, on the other hand, offers a more approachable and fruit-forward style, while still maintaining the signature intensity of the region.
Numanthia Termes is a winery that embodies the spirit and essence of the Toro region in Spain. Its vineyards, located along the south bank of the Duero River, benefit from the region's extreme climate and sandy soils, resulting in wines that are rich, powerful, and full-bodied. With a commitment to preserving the heritage and tradition of the area, Numanthia Termes produces wines that are a true reflection of their terroir.