Introduction:
The 2022 Bodegas Vatan “Vivian Lewis Art & Wine Series” Tempranillo is a bold, expressive red from the Toro DO that showcases the region’s signature power, depth, and intensity through a modern yet terroir-respectful lens. Marrying old-vine fruit concentration with polished winemaking, this cuvée delivers dark-fruited richness, structural authority, and artistic flair, reflecting both Toro’s rugged identity and Vatan’s focused craftsmanship.

Terrior:
Toro, in Castilla y León, is defined by its high-elevation vineyards, extreme continental climate, and ancient sandy soils over clay and limestone. Hot days drive full phenolic ripeness and density, while cool nights help retain acidity. Many vines are old, ungrafted Tempranillo (locally known as Tinta de Toro), naturally low-yielding and deeply rooted, producing wines of formidable structure, mineral depth, and longevity.

Appearance:
Deep, opaque ruby to inky purple with a near-black core. Dense coloration and slow, pronounced legs indicate concentration and extract.

Nose:
Powerful and layered, with aromas of black cherry, blackberry, and ripe plum. Secondary notes of licorice, graphite, dark chocolate, espresso, and toasted oak emerge alongside hints of dried herbs and warm earth.

Palate:
Full-bodied and muscular, with intense dark fruit framed by firm, fine-grained tannins. Flavors of cassis, black cherry compote, and blackberry are joined by cocoa, vanilla, clove, and subtle smoky oak. Despite its richness, the wine maintains balance through underlying acidity and savory mineral tension.

Finish:
Long, commanding, and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, spice, and structured tannins. The finish is dry, powerful, and clearly built for aging.

Food Pairings:

• Meat: Grilled ribeye; roast lamb with rosemary; slow-braised beef shank

• Vegetarian: Lentil and mushroom stew; roasted eggplant with smoked paprika; black bean and mole-inspired dishes

• Charcuterie Board: Aged Manchego; jamón ibérico; chorizo; cocoa-dusted almonds

Overall Impression:
Synthesizing Toro’s extreme continental terroir, inky appearance, deeply layered dark-fruit aromatics, powerful and structured palate, and long, authoritative finish, the 2022 Bodegas Vatan “Vivian Lewis Art & Wine Series” Tempranillo is a striking, age-worthy wine. Best paired with robust, protein-driven cuisine, it exemplifies Toro’s intensity while delivering polish and modern balance.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 15%
Farming Practices: Sustainable viticulture; emphasis on old-vine, low-yielding vineyards
Producer Name: Bodegas Vatan
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Spain
Region: Toro DO, Castilla y León
Grape Varietals: Tempranillo (Tinta de Toro)
Vintage: 2022
Wine Style: Still red; full-bodied; powerful; age-worthy
Winemaking Techniques: Hand harvesting; traditional fermentation; extended maceration; aging in oak barrels
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Bordeaux-style bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork

Sources:

• Bodegas Vatan producer and technical materials
• Toro DO viticultural and regional references