The hottest wine in the LCBO is now available across the province, so we’re finally writing about it. Occasionally there is a wine that causes a craze at the LCBO. Maybe it’s the beginning of a new fad or region, but it can also be the discovery of a great value and that craze always seems to ramp up faster. This week’s wine, Toro Bravo Tempranillo Merlot, has been disappearing since a review in the Toronto Star gave the 2017 vintage 96 points – their highest ever score for a wine under $10! With the 2017 vintage running out and the delicious 2018 now on the shelf, you may be able to find both and compare!
Tasting Notes: This blend of Tempranillo and Merlot offers up flavours of plum and baked red berries, with sweet spices and a touch of chocolate. The tannins are soft and smooth, and the wine’s acidity keeps it lively, which is even more evident in the 2018.
Enjoy With: Burgers, grilled meats or chicken with barbeque sauce. It’s perfect for your patio so just drop a case next to the barbeque and serve Toro Bravo with anything that comes off it.
Style: A fruity, well-balanced and medium-bodied red wine.
Terroir/Region: The Valencia DO stretches from near Spain’s eastern-Mediterranean coast inland and upward into the hills of the interior. This allows Toro Bravo to use very ripe grapes from warmer areas near the sea and grapes from higher altitudes which maintain a fresher acidity. Blend those together and you have a great balance of ripeness and freshness that can cause a craze!
Producer: Toro Bravo is all about consistent great value. The winery team has been able to secure long-term partnerships with the families who own many of the region’s best vineyards, allowing the final wine to be a consistent blend from year to year, ensuring great quality vintage after vintage.
Availability: The 2018 Toro Bravo Tempranillo Merlot is available in your local LCBO and is also available for online ordering. You may want to stock up if you find some!
Check LCBO store inventory
Price: $7.95
LCBO#: #635755
Size: 750mL
Alcohol Content: 13.0% alc./vol.
