Olivara, M.O. de Olivara Toro 2006, Spain
The Toro region in northwest Spain is on many people’s radar, including illustrious houses like Vega Sicilia from next-door Ribera del Duero, who have set up an operation there. Using the same grape – Tempranillo – known locally as Tinto de Toro, this wine was part-fermented then aged in French oak and comes from 40-year-old vines planted at altitude. Having picked up a string of international medals including a Decanter Awards gold, it is interesting to see its price slashed from 13.49 to 8.99 by winedeal.co.uk. The nose brims with deep-set, juicy black fruit, framed by some classy oak and a nicely earthy and gamey spiciness too. On the palate it is deeply fruited, a tight, blue-black seam of fruit and the tannins giving some plum-skin bite to make it savoury and structured. A lot of wine for the money this I have to say, and whilst delicious now, five years in the cellar will do it no harm at all. £8.99
