Dominio de Eguren Protocolo Tinto 2017

The Eguren family produces Protocolo Tinto, one of the world's best value wines, from vineyards in Manchuela, Rioja, and Toro. They lease vineyards on long term contracts from farmers in Manchuela who grow Tempranillo on the limestone rich soils at high altitudes in this southeastern corner of Spain. The oldest vineyards are 35 years old, grown sustainably, and dry farmed. These conditions reduce yields and result in incredibly balanced but fruit forward Tempranillo. The Eguren family also blends 10-15% of the wine with young estate grown vineyards in Rioja and Toro, which are planted with massal selections from the family's best estate grown plots. For the first 10-15 years of these vineyards' lives, they are used for Protocolo before they graduate into the estate wines of Rioja and Toro.

James Suckling: 91
This pure tempranillo shows plenty of crushed-berry and chocolate character. Medium body. Light tannins, yet firm and tight. Shows depth. Amazing value. Drink now.