Toro is a wine region in northwest Spain, famous for its rich and intense red wines made from the Tempranillo variety. Located in the Castilla y Leon district, this is a warm Continental climate with vineyards planted above 2000 feet, so as to mitigate the heat in the valley.

The primary variety is Tempranillo, the same grape found in other well-known Spanish regions, such as Rioja and Ribera del Duero. Small percentages of Garnacha (known as Grenache in France) are sometimes used in blends, while there is also a Toro Bianco, crafted from Muscat and Verdejo varieties.

Toro reds are usually aged in barriques and reach alcohol levels of 15%-15.5%; these are powerful fruit-forward wines that have caught the attention of numerous wine critics around the world. The best examples sell in the $40-$50 price range in America, and can drink well for more than a decade. Spicy and gutsy, these are ideal with grilled red meats, wild game and aged cheeses. (Wine/Appellations)