TORO WINES – MADE FOR THE PLEASURES OF THE TABLE

As an agricultural product that has, for centuries, been an intrinsic component of the local culture, economy and history, the wines of Toro have evolved hand in hand with the local cuisine. Toro wines play a central role at the family table alongside the many regional specialities, all of which rely upon outstanding local produce. The region’s live stock, legumes, cheeses, honey, olive oil, asparagus and mushrooms are among Spain’s most prized, providing the basis of recipes as iconic as Arroz a La Zamorana, Habones de Sanabria and Bacalao a la Tranca. These flavourful, spice-laden dishes are underscored by the freshness and herbal savouriness of Tinta de Toro wines. It’s also easy to see how the tannic structure and black-fruited depth of the region’s reds pair well with the many traditional meat-based dishes – from delicate veal to intense wild boar (often cooked in Tinta de Toro sauce), by way of spicy cold cuts.

Toro wines are also perfect companions for grilled octopus, of which local wine haunt Esquina de Colás serves a spectacular version of. Meanwhile, another local gastronomic institution, El Chivo, specialises in fish specialities, further showcasing the versatility of local wines: the juiciness and fresh acidity of a good Toro wine can lift the richness of grilled sardines or the salty deliciousness of a grilled ray topped with capers. For those with a sweet tooth here’s an insider’s tip: Toro is home to an outstanding chocolate factory, aptly named La Superlativa, whose intense and creamy bars could not be more delicious than with a liquorice-rich glass of aged Tinta de Toro.