The 2009 Crianza has a sweet, ripe, milk chocolate-scented bouquet with scents of strawberry shortcake. The palate is well-balanced with a supple entry and a fleshy core of red fruits, although the mocha-infused oak tends to get its way toward the finish. Drink now-2016. Originating from the Greek word for “first”, Protos was founded back in 1927 by 15 local winemakers, who created the Cooperativa Ribera del Duero. Their modern winery is located in Anguix in Burgos in the shadow of the splendid Penafiel castle. Opened in 2008 and designed by no less than Richard Rogers. I am going to commence with a couple of wines from Rueda that the bodega produces as they are worth seeking out. Importer: Winebow Inc., Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Cherry, toasty and chocolate flavors mingle in this solid red. Grippy tannins give a foundation to a slightly candied fruit character. Drink now through 2014. 66,600 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Ribera del Duero Select to Add