The First Step: Dominion of the Blessed

When Antony Terryn left France to settle in Zamora, he didn't do it to make "mild" wines. He did it because he was searching for the true essence of Tinta de Toro.

The First Step It's the wine that started it all.

It comes from vineyards that, although Antony calls them "young", have between 15 and 40 years. In any other region they would be old vines, but in Toro they are the ones that provide freshness and strength. Here there is no irrigation or chemicals; there is only sun, sandy soil and absolute respect for what comes from the land.

What's inside the bottle: It is a single-varietal product of Bull's Ink. It passes between 6 and 8 months in oak barrels Aged in French and American oak. It's the perfect amount of time for the wine to settle, but without the wood overpowering the fruit. 14.5º, But they are so alive and so well placed that what you feel is an explosion of flavor, not a hit of alcohol.

What you'll notice when you try it: It's a wine with a deep, vibrant violet color. It smells of blackberries and licorice, with a subtle hint of oak spice that emerges at the end. On the palate, it's a celebration: it has energy, body, and a mineral freshness that cleanses the palate. It's one of those wines that fills your mouth and makes you smile because you realize that this is... real wine, without makeup.

This is the wine we always recommend when someone wants to discover Dominio del Bendito without starting with the heavier reds. It's balanced, it's straightforward, and it's quite possibly one of the most honest wines you'll taste this year.

A necessary warning: Antony doesn't make wine, he cultivates it. And because the vineyards are what they are, production is limited. If you want to understand why a Frenchman decided to settle in Toro, uncork a Primer Paso. But do it before word gets out, because this is the favorite of those seeking artisanal quality at a price that won't break the bank.