Protos Crianza Ribera del Duero - A Legacy in Every Sip

A Heritage of Excellence

Protos Crianza Ribera del Duero is not just a wine; it’s a narrative of passion, tradition, and innovation. Born from the esteemed vineyards of Bodegas Protos, this wine exemplifies the rich history and unwavering commitment to quality that has been the hallmark of Protos since 1927.

The Winery

Bodegas Protos holds the prestigious title of being the first winery in Ribera del Duero, a region renowned for producing some of Spain’s most revered wines. Nestled at the foot of the ancient Peñafiel Castle, the winery is a fusion of historical legacy and modern architectural prowess, designed by the famed architect Richard Rogers. With approximately 100 hectares of owned vineyards and collaborations with local growers, Protos assures the highest quality fruit selection, underpinning the winery’s philosophy of ‘Quality above all.’

The Terroir

Ribera del Duero’s unique terroir is instrumental in crafting wines of complexity and depth. The region’s continental climate presents harsh extremes with hot summers and cold winters, punctuated by vast diurnal temperature swings. This climate, along with predominantly clay-loamy soils, creates the perfect conditions for the Tempranillo grape—known locally as Tinto Fino—to thrive.

Wine Composition and Aging

Protos Crianza is crafted primarily from Tempranillo grapes, sometimes blended slightly with other local varieties. The grapes are hand-harvested to ensure that only the finest are selected, following a tradition that highlights the vineyard’s meticulous care and attention. After harvesting, the grapes undergo controlled fermentation to maintain their natural richness and are aged for 24 months, with at least 12 months in oak barrels followed by bottle aging.

Tasting Profile

This wine reveals a deep cherry color and an enticing aroma profile of ripe red fruits, creamy oak, and subtle spices. On the palate, Protos Crianza offers a powerful yet elegant structure, combining juicy fruit flavors with fine tannins and a vibrant acidity. Its complex aroma and rich body culminate in a long, satisfying finish, echoing the tradition and finesse of Ribera del Duero wines.

Pairings and Serving

Marvelously versatile, Protos Crianza pairs well with a wide array of dishes. Its robust yet balanced profile makes it an ideal companion to grilled lamb, beef steaks, and hearty stews, as well as aged cheeses like Manchego. Serve at 16-18°C, and consider decanting for 30-60 minutes to fully appreciate its layers of flavor.

Recognition and Availability

Consistently receiving high marks from esteemed wine critics, Protos Crianza is recognized for its balance, depth, and reflection of its terroir. Widely available internationally, it is a must-have for both casual consumers and discerning collectors, embodying both immediate pleasure and compelling aging potential.

The Legacy

Protos Crianza symbolizes the pioneering spirit of Bodegas Protos, capturing the essence of Ribera del Duero’s winemaking tradition and its future-forward innovations. As a benchmark in Spanish red wines, it remains a testament to the quality and rich cultural heritage that defines this celebrated wine region.