Pago la Jara 2020

Pago la Jara is a Tinta de Toro from D.O. Toro, made by Compañía de Vinos Telmo Rodríguez, the project of oenologists Telmo Rodríguez and Pablo Eguzkiza, who work with the local variety of each Spanish region they farm. Toro lies on a high plateau in Castilla y León on poor sandy and stony soils, where a hot, dry continental climate and a wide day-to-night temperature swing ripen the thick-skinned Tinta de Toro fully while the cold nights hold its acidity. The result is one of Spain's most powerful reds, deep in colour and rich in tannin. The wine spends fourteen months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange firms the abundant tannins, adds spice and a fine toast and knits the structure together. The colour is deep, opaque purple. The nose is dense blackberry, black plum and cassis over liquorice, dark spice and a touch of earth. The palate is full and powerful, with firm ripe tannins, warmth and a long finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour or more ahead, with hearty roast and grilled meats.