Bodegas Protos : Gran Reserva 2015

This inky violet-red wine offers aromas of black cherry, white chocolate and baking spices. Chewy tannins coat the tongue, while flavors of cherry, black currant, dark chocolate, caramel and juniper berry swirl towards a remarkably bright finish.

Fine balsamic complexity with a touch of cedar, espresso and violets to the blackberries. Tannins are tight but polished on the full-bodied palate, showing refined structure and excellent length in the finish. Impressive stature of fruit, too. Drink or hold.

The 2015 Gran Reserva is a 100% Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero, aged for 24 months in barrels—80% French and 20% American. Garnet-red in hue. The nose offers tobacco, bay leaf, camphor, ripe plum and dried fig notes, all harmoniously framed by the oak. The palate is dry and plush, with polished tannins and a chalky texture, leading to a faintly velvety, lasting mouthfeel.