2006 Bodega Numanthia-Termes "Termanthia" Toro

Glass-staining ruby. Seductive, strongly perfumed aromas of black raspberry, boysenberry, sandalwood, potpourri and cocoa powder. Surprisingly lithe and energetic on the palate, offering sweet red berry and spice flavors, a velvety texture and slow-mounting minerality. Turns more floral on the finish, which is tangy, fresh and extremely long. More graceful than the 2005 but without that superb wine's power: think of Margaux vs. the 2005's Latour. (JR)

With some years of history on their backs, they are now releasing limited quantities of old vintages, and want to start with some wines with ten years after the harvest—as is the case with the 2006 Termanthia. There are plenty of oak-related aromas, toast, sweet spices and smoke. It's very spicy and balsamic, even with hints of eucalyptus, with plenty of volume and glossy tannins. 2006 was a warm and ripe vintage, in line with 2009, 2011 and 2015 that produced voluptuous wines. But time in bottle has polished the tannins, and this 2006 still feels young, if a little monolithic, and has not yet developed a lot of complexity; that is the challenge here, see if time brings further complexity. (LG)