This is a wine of the moment, a rich and warm glassful which is the perfect partner for the comforting slow-cooked casseroles or pot roasts which winter days demand.
Its maker, Antonio Sanz, established Bodegas Toresanas in 1997, a decade after the Toro denomination was authorised, but both man and region have much longer vinous histories.  The Sanz family has been making wine since the 19th century, while Toro wines filled the glasses of the kings of Castile in the middle ages.
Amant Roble, pure tinto de Toro – the thick-skinned version of tempranillo which flourishes in the region’s bakingly hot summers – is the youngest wine in a range which move on into crianza and reserva.  Even so, it spends four months in French barriques, which gives the powerful fruit a smooth gloss.
There are generous red fruit aromas, with a hint of spice and liquorice, which continue on the palate, with darker fruits – bramble and damson – joining in.  Yet even the 2003, from an exceptionally hot year, has a freshness on the finish which adds to its drinkability.  
Why are two vintages listed?  This is changeover time between them, but don’t worry – both are recommended, and the 2004 lived up to its name in the 2006 New Wave Spanish wine awards.  The judges loved it!