Two weeks ago, I got the chance to visit my favorite bodega (winery), Bodegas Elias Mora. Thanks to my friend Ángela, who’s the owner/operator’s niece, I felt comfortable enough to attend the Festinto 2012, even though it was technically open to the public. I did learn one thing, though: when they say the party starts at 9, don’t get there until 10, or someone will say to you, “I don’t know who you are.” Don’t be on time, did you hear me?

Oh well, if we’d arrived later, we wouldn’t have gotten as good of photos.

Although Elias Mora is DO Toro wine, it’s actually located in a village of Valladolid, San Román de Hornija, which has a population of about 425. Thus, the party was mainly for friends/family of the winery, as well as some villagers. I was the only guiri, of course, but we were welcomed with open arms. Mario even got to help bring boxes of wine out for the party. (Because I lead a life of luxury, I don’t carry boxes. No, just kidding—I had my hands full.

Our view for the night—not too shabby, right?

There was all the wine you could drink, accompanied by delicious quesado curado (a cured sheep’s milk cheese, which is my favorite), bread, chorizo, and desserts. Not bad. Not bad at all.

Barrels lined with sprigs of rosemary.

Afterwards, they had a local band ready to play all night long, as is typical in Spain, but Mario and I, not being huge partiers or night owls, decided to head home around midnight. We had about an hour’s drive home.

If you ever visit Spain, don’t miss Toro wines. They are distinct from Rioja or Ribera del Duero, some of the most popular wines. I especially recommend Elias Mora, which you can buy here for about €6–€8 for the joven bottle. Their crianza and Gran Elias Mora wines are both worth checking out as well, but you’ll have to offer up a bit more money. However, I thoroughly believe their wines are great values, and you won’t regret purchasing them.

Thanks Ángela (and the rest of you at Bodegas Elias Mora)!

If you’re interested in learning more, please check out the Elias Mora Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact them directly.