Protos 27

The Protos 27 from the Spanish Ribera del Duero shows what Tempranillo can become with time and wood: a dense, structured red wine with real aging potential.

Bodegas Protos is one of the oldest wineries in Ribera del Duero – founded in 1927, hence the number in its name. The winery is located in Peñafiel, the heart of the appellation, and matures its wines in the historic rock cellars beneath the castle. The 27 spends 16 months in French oak barrels before bottling.

In the glass, it shines a deep, dark cherry red. The nose reveals black plum, blackberry, and a distinct vanilla note from the oak aging, underpinned by licorice and a hint of toffee. On the palate, firm but ripe tannins, good length, and a spicy finish with tobacco and dark fruit. The wine is drinkable now but will continue to develop in the bottle until 2030.

Recommendation: Serving temperature 17–18 °C. Pairs well with leg of lamb with rosemary, Ibérico pork roast, or aged Manchego cheese. Also a good accompaniment to hearty stews such as Cocido madrileño.