Wines Toro Bodegas San Román - Rejón - 2020

Viniou Reviews

San Román Cuvée Rejón 2020 from Bodegas San Román in the Toro DO is a compelling red wine that showcases the full expression of the Tinta de Toro grape, a local variant of Tempranillo. This cuvée is crafted from vines with significant age, often planted in deep, sandy soils interspersed with pebbles, which lend the wine a distinctive concentration and complexity. 2020 was marked by a warm and dry growing season, resulting in grapes with impressive ripeness, intensity, and tannic structure. The winemaking process typically involves careful hand-harvesting, followed by fermentation in stainless steel or concrete and ageing in French and American oak barrels. This approach preserves the bold fruit profile—think black cherry, plum, and blackberry—while layering in nuances of dark chocolate, sweet spices, and a subtle earthy minerality.

Toro itself, as a wine region of Castille and León, is steeped in history dating back to the Middle Ages, celebrated for producing robust red wines prized by Spanish monarchs and explorers. The continental climate is marked by harsh winters and hot, arid summers, promoting low yields and concentrating flavour in the grapes. The region benefits from sandy, well-draining soils that naturally protect vines from phylloxera, allowing some ancient vineyards to persist. This unique terroir, combined with the powerful Tinta de Toro grape, results in wines of remarkable depth, vigour, and ageing potential.

A wine like San Román Cuvée Rejón 2020 pairs beautifully with hearty cuisine. Regional Spanish dishes such as roast lamb with rosemary (lechazo asado), slow-cooked oxtail (rabo de toro), or aged Manchego cheese underscore the wine’s bold tannins and vibrant fruit. More broadly, it complements grilled meats, game, and rich stews, as well as mushroom-based dishes and robust vegetarian fare.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C, allowing it to breathe for an hour before tasting. If cellared, it should develop additional complexity over the next decade. Decanting is recommended to fully appreciate its layered bouquet and supple, lingering finish.