Bodegas y Viñedos Pintia 2017 is a remarkable red wine hailing from the Toro DO in the heart of Castille and León, Spain. Crafted predominantly from the local Tinta de Toro grape, a robust and slightly thicker-skinned variant of Tempranillo, this 2017 vintage stands out for both its structure and depth. The wine benefits from meticulous vinification techniques, typically involving manual harvesting and precise temperature control during fermentation, followed by generous ageing in French and American oak barrels. This process enhances the wine’s intense colour, ripe black fruit character (think blackberries, plums, cassis), and well-integrated tannins, while subtle spice and toasty notes round out its profile.
The Toro DO itself boasts a winemaking tradition that stretches back to Roman times, celebrated for producing wines of great body and longevity. The region is typified by its continental climate, with hot, dry summers and very cold winters, which contribute to concentrated fruit and strong tannic structures. Situated along the Duero River, Toro’s sandy, well-drained soils are naturally resistant to phylloxera, and many old vineyards still thrive on ungrafted vines. These natural conditions encourage low yields and high quality, resulting in the bold, expressive wines for which the DO is renowned.
Owing to its power and complexity, Pintia 2017 excels as a partner for robust cuisine. It pairs beautifully with Castilian lamb roasted over vine cuttings, hearty stews such as rabo de toro (oxtail stew), or game meats like venison. Mature hard cheeses such as manchego, or grilled beef with rich, earthy sauces, also complement its character. For a regional touch, try it alongside cecina, the cured beef typical of León.
Serve this wine at 16-18°C, ideally after decanting for an hour to allow its aromatic complexity and tannic structure to open fully. Enjoy now for its vibrant fruit, or cellar for several more years to develop further nuance and harmony.
