Protos Wines: The Treasure of Ribera del Duero
You don’t need to be a sommelier to appreciate the quality of Spanish wines from Ribera del Duero, a denomination of origin renowned for producing some of the most distinguished wines in Castilla y León, including Protos. The Protos Wineries embody an ancient winemaking tradition rooted in the heart of Ribera del Duero. Here, the Tempranillo grape plays a pivotal role in the region's rich enological history.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to everything you need to know about Protos wine, its denomination of origin, and its most important characteristics.
Origins and History of Protos Wines and Its Winery
The area of Peñafiel, where the region's main wineries are located, has been historically significant in the development of Ribera del Duero winemaking—not just for its fertile lands but also for its rich legacy. Since the 10th century, monks in the area were pioneers in Spanish viticulture. Techniques for harvesting, production, and preservation were passed down meticulously from master to apprentice through a careful artisanal process.
The story of Protos wine as we know it today began in 1927, when 11 winemakers joined forces to promote the region and its high-quality wines by forming a wine cooperative. Bodega Protos gained international recognition in the 1930s, particularly after the success of its red wines at the 1929 Universal Exhibition in Barcelona. This acclaim provided a significant boost for the creation of the Ribera del Duero Denomination of Origin in 1982.
The brand’s crowning achievement came in 2012, when Protos became the first Spanish wine brand to receive the "mark of excellence" certification from the international organization Superbrands. A year later, it was named Winery of the Year by the American magazine Wine & Spirits.
Style and Pairing of Protos Wines
Protos wines are authentic, generous, and meticulously crafted, ranking among the best in Ribera del Duero. Depending on the age of the vines and the time the wine is aged before being released to the market, the Protos style can vary significantly. The red wines, made with 100% Tempranillo grapes, undergo different maturation periods in French and American oak barrels:
- Young Wine: minimum of 6 months maturation
- Crianza: 14 months maturation
- Reserva: 18 months maturation
- Gran Reserva: 24 months maturation
The result is always balanced, expressive, and powerful. Aging in wood imparts notes of roasting, dark chocolate, and caramelized fruit, while the finish is broad, long, and silky. Learn more about this process in the following video:
Watch the video on Protos wine production
Ideal Pairings for Protos Wines
Protos wines are excellent for enjoying at any occasion or time of day. Their flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of foods, including:
- Vegetables
- Roasted meats
- Carpaccio
- Fabada
- Chorizo
- Iberian ham
- Garlic shrimp
With this brief guide, we hope to inspire you to enjoy an authentic Protos wine and immerse yourself in the rich winemaking history of Ribera del Duero. Discover it at My Way!