Gran Reserva

Seven years from the vineyard to the glass: The Gran Reserva from Protos is a Tempranillo that understands time as a raw material. 24 months of maturation in oak barrels, followed by 48 months in the bottle — that is a serious commitment to patience, even for a Gran Reserva from Castile.

Protos is one of the most traditional wineries in the Ribera del Duero. The cooperative was founded in 1927 and was significantly involved in the region being elevated to an independent DO in 1982. Their vineyards are located on the Castilian high plateau, where cold nights and intense hours of sunshine give the Tempranillo structure and depth.

In the glass, it shows a dense ruby red with garnet reflections. On the nose, dark cherry and plum combine with cedar wood, leather, and a hint of dried herbs. On the palate, the wine feels matured and round: the tannins are polished, the fruit integrated, the finish long with a subtle spice of tobacco and dark chocolate.

Best served at 16–18 °C, ideally decanted an hour before drinking. Classic companions are leg of lamb with rosemary jus, suckling pig, or ripe Manchego. If you don't need a big occasion: a quiet evening is perfectly sufficient.