2015 Matsu "El Viejo" Tinta de Toro ($47)

I saved the best for last! In previous Behind the Cork™ - Wine of the Week reviews I've featured Matsu's "El Picaro" and "El Recio" wines, both of which are very nice Tempranillos from the Toro region of Spain. But, "El Viejo" is Matsu's finest.

While Matsu pays homage to those who have worked in the vineyards with their real-life photos on the labels, "El Viejo" (meaning 'The old') is a reference to the vineyard where these grapes are grown. Matsu selects only the best grapes to make this wine from their very old vineyards of more than 100 years of age.

Along with only the best grapes from the vineyard, this wine is treated to 16 months in new French oak during aging. The result is wonderful.

This full-bodied Tempranillo exhibits rich dark fruit flavors of fig, blackberry and raisin while the new French oak gives it a chocolatey flavor with a nice finish.

If you see "El Viejo" staring at you, be sure to pick it up and take it home. Enjoy! It's a treat!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this wine at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample provided by Rebekah Polster 401 West Communications and supplied by Vintae (www.vintae.com)