Editor's Rating
Winery – Bodegas Numanthia
Wine – Termes
Vintage – 2013
Varietal – 100% Tinta De Toro (Tempranillo)
Score – 90/100
Price – GBP £18.00 USD $23.82
The entry level ‘Termes’ is anything but your typical entry level wine and that in itself speaks volumes about Bodegas Numanthia; everything these guys produce is exceptional and this is no exception!
This fiery Crianza is an absolute beast upon first opening, fiercely tannic and powerful. So much so, I double decanted and then left until the following evening to reassess. I was pleased my patience had paid off, as the limpet like tannins from the day before had mellowed to a much more endearing and approachable level; although still, the incredible masculinity of this wine was clear. Imagine a dominant male peacock, fanning his tail feathers to entice the surrounding hoards of female admirers and in doing so thrusting his male counterparts into his shadow. Well that is this wine down to a tee, it’s a real showpiece of a beverage.
Deepest darkest purple, sitting almost black in the glass. Blackberry, prune and wood spice abundant on the nose, with just a hint of sweet pipe tobacco. In the mouth, the flavour intensity is incredible; powerful concentrated dark fruit, creamy oak, clove and a spicy finish make for an memorable experience. Full bodied, with a moderate acidity, decent intensity and over length finish.
All in all, a very good wine, but has the potential to be even better if you can hold out for two or three years, when this will surely be at its best. If you have the breaking strain of a soggy biscuit, such as myself, a splashy decant or uncorking the day before will offer a little accelerated ageing and you can glug away!
