Exploring Toro’s Heritage with Jesús Jiménez of Bodega Numanthia

Bodega Numanthia, well-known for its exquisite Spanish wines, boasts a legacy that intertwines with a unique region in Castilla y León, especially through the eyes of winemaker Jesús Jiménez. An intimate lunch at the Fine Wine Encounter in London will feature some of the winery’s standout vintages, including the Numanthia 2019 and Termanthia 2015.

Jesús Jiménez's Early Influences

Jiménez's journey into the world of wine is deeply rooted in family tradition. His earliest memories are of the vineyards alongside his father and grandfather, who instilled a profound appreciation for the craft. “I remember tasting wines during fermentation and driving tractors in the vineyard—those experiences shaped my understanding of wine from a young age,” he recalls.

The influence of his father, a perfectionist, laid the groundwork for Jiménez’s meticulous approach to winemaking. He learned that the care invested in the vineyard yields remarkable returns. Early mentorship from notable winemakers such as Pepe Hidalgo and Ana Martin in La Rioja, alongside the esteemed Michel Rolland, helped refine his vision and techniques.

The Unique Terroir of Toro

Toro, often compared to finding an old treasure in a grandparent's home, is a forgotten gem with a unique terroir. Jiménez treasures the region's ancient vines, some over 200 years old, which produce remarkably low yields that are nearly unmatched globally. "The potential of this land continues to unfold as we explore more about its diversity," he asserts, pointing to the more than 100 vineyard parcels Numanthia currently manages.

The vines, many of which are ungrafted and some pre-phylloxera, thrive thanks to the region's sandy soils that naturally resist pests. This long-standing heritage imparts distinctive tannins into the wine, allowing for better integration and complexity. "Our wines aren’t great just because the vines are old; they’re ancient because they’ve always produced exceptional wines," Jiménez explains.

Tinta de Toro: Character and Aging Potential

Central to the wines of Numanthia is the Tinta de Toro varietal, a regional adaptation of Tempranillo. With centuries of local cultivation, the grape has evolved into a smaller, looser bunch with thicker skins, enhancing its resistance to disease and elevating the polyphenolic content. This adaptation is vital, considering the dry climate of the region, which allows optimal ripening, thus resulting in wines rich in flavor and structure.

Jiménez extols the aromatic complexity and taste profile of Tinta de Toro. "These wines can evolve favorably for up to 20 years, which we've enjoyed since our establishment in 1998," he says, underscoring the longevity and quality of Numanthia's offerings.

Culinary Delights of Toro

Apart from wine, Jiménez shares his love for the culinary offerings of the Toro region. He enjoys hosting meals with simple yet flavorful local ingredients, such as Iberian cured meats, fresh cheeses, and high-quality olive oil. For main courses, he favors a tender beef fillet or baked turbot, emphasizing their compatibility with Numanthia’s wines. "It's surprising how well our reds pair with good fish dishes," he notes.

Travel Tips for Visiting Toro

Visitors to the Toro region will find themselves at the heart of Castilla y León, surrounded by historic cities like Salamanca, Zamora, and Valladolid within an hour's drive from the winery. Experiences like the roast suckling lamb and the local "chuletón de Aliste" (rib-eye steak) are must-tries that complement Numanthia’s rich wines. Jiménez encourages exploring beyond Toro, suggesting Gaudí's architectural gems in León and Astorga as worthwhile detours.

Favorite Dining Spots in London

When in London, Jiménez favors Hispania for its warm atmosphere and excellent food. For a more vibrant setting to relish good food and wine, he recommends visiting Prince Arthur, which is set to reopen in a new location next year.

Life Beyond Winemaking

Outside of his winemaking duties, Jiménez dedicates his time to his family vineyard and enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and exploring culinary experiences. His passion for craftsmanship extends to his wine collection, which he curates thoughtfully, enjoying bottles that highlight unique winemaking styles from various regions.

With experiences that encapsulate both the heritage of the land and the meticulous work within vineyards, Jesús Jiménez offers a lens into Toro's wines that not only respect tradition but also continuously seek improvement. Attendees at the upcoming Fine Wine Encounter will no doubt walk away with a deeper appreciation for both the nuances of Toro’s viticulture and Jiménez’s artful winemaking.