Protos 9 Meses, organic Ribera del Duero with its own identity
Protos 9 Meses is a red wine that reflects a contemporary vision of Ribera del Duero, built on respect for the vineyard and precise winemaking. It is not a generic wine, nor does it seek shortcuts. Its personality comes directly from the origin of the grapes and from consistent work both in the vineyard and in the cellar. At Licorea, we see it as a clear reference for those who value balance between character, freshness and carefully measured ageing.
This wine is made exclusively from grapes grown in vineyards certified in organic farming, a key element that defines its profile from the very beginning. Intervention is minimal and always focused on preserving the natural expression of the environment.
High-altitude organic vineyards
The grapes used for Protos 9 Meses come entirely from estate-owned hillside vineyards, planted with a clear North–South orientation. This layout encourages even ripening, with balanced sun exposure throughout the day.
The vineyards are located at a high altitude, between 800 and 840 metres, a decisive factor in Ribera del Duero. This elevation brings cool summer nights, helping to preserve the grapes’ natural acidity and to define cleaner, more precise aromas.
The soil is loam-clay with a slightly alkaline character. This type of soil allows good water retention, essential in a dry continental climate, and contributes to the wine’s structure and balance.
Yields are controlled and moderate, at around 4,500 kg per hectare. This limitation is aimed at concentration and quality, prioritising fruit expression over quantity.
Organic Tempranillo as the foundation of the wine
The variety used is Tinta del País, the local expression of Tempranillo in Ribera del Duero. Under organic cultivation, this grape shows a more direct profile, with clean fruit and firm yet well-defined tannins.
The harvest is carried out at optimal ripeness, with particular attention paid to the balance between sugar, acidity and phenolic maturity. The goal is not to push alcohol levels, but to preserve the vineyard’s identity.
Careful winemaking and ageing in French oak
After harvest, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks with temperature control. This process allows for gradual extraction of colour and aromas, avoiding over-extraction that could compromise freshness.
Once fermentation is complete, Protos 9 Meses is transferred to French oak barrels, both new and one-year-old, where it remains for a minimum of nine months. The choice of this wood aims to add structure and complexity while keeping fruit at the forefront.
The ageing is designed to accompany the wine rather than dominate it. French oak contributes refined notes and a smoother texture, integrating naturally into the overall profile.
A defined and balanced sensory profile
In the glass, Protos 9 Meses shows an intense cherry-red colour with violet highlights, typical of its youth. It is a clean, bright wine with good depth.
On the nose, clear aromas of red and black fruit appear, such as cherry and blackberry, accompanied by subtle hints of spice and fine toast from the barrel. The profile is straightforward and well defined.
On the palate, it offers good structure, with firm yet approachable tannins. Fruit remains the leading element, supported by balanced acidity that brings freshness. The oak is well integrated, adding depth without reducing agility.
The finish is medium and persistent, leaving a harmonious and easy-drinking impression.
A highly versatile organic Ribera del Duero
Protos 9 Meses is a wine designed to accompany a wide range of dishes. It works well with grilled meats, hearty stews, Iberian cured meats and semi-mature cheeses.
It also fits perfectly into more informal meals, where a red wine with character but without excessive weight is desired. Served at the right temperature, it fully expresses its balance between fruit, freshness and ageing.
Protos and its commitment to the vineyard
Bodega Protos is one of the historic references of Ribera del Duero, with a long-standing tradition closely linked to vineyard care. In recent years, its commitment to organic farming has reinforced this philosophy, focused on quality and respect for the environment.
With Protos 9 Meses, the winery delivers a wine that is fully aligned with this vision, where every technical decision has a clear reflection in the glass.
A standout reference in our selection
At Licorea, we believe Protos 9 Meses holds a very solid position within the Ribera del Duero category. It is one of the few organic references in the area that combines high-altitude vineyards, controlled yields and French oak ageing with an accessible profile.
This Protos 9 Meses offers our Ribera del Duero red wine lovers a reliable, well-defined option with a clear sense of origin. An honest, balanced and easy-to-understand wine that conveys what happens in the vineyard without artifice.
