Bodegas Protos, Gran Reserva, Ribera del Duero, Spain 2001

Great counterpoint to the 1999 vintage tasted alongside it, this 2001 shows Protos' stylistic evolution as well as the disparate character of a classic 'Atlantic' vintage, with more detail and fragrance. Layers of wet leaves, tobacco, pomegranate, cranberry, cherry, fig leaf, cocoa nibs and salty liquorice build a complex and long palate, supported by muscular tannins and balsamic lift. An undercurrant of refreshing red fruit (cranberry, pomegranate) adds energy throughout. Mushrooms and Comté start emerging in the background with delicious umami appeal. One to enjoy with mushroom risotto.