Country: Spain Region: Rioja Varietal: Tempranillo Vintage: 2018 Colour: Red Style: Dry Producer: Bodegas LAN Description: Bodegas LANA name, LAN, which represents the initials of the provinces of the DOCa. Rioja: Logroño (today La Rioja), Á lava and Navarra. Bodegas LAN has always been known for its innovative winemaking, in a region that is rooted in tradition. Bodegas Lan was founded in early 1970’s, in a spectacular setting, on the curve of the River Ebro. Viña Lanciano is the name of this spectacular enclave of 72 hectares. They are located on a privileged site with a natural border between Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa. At Bodegas LAN, they have always owned their vineyards, which are influenced by the soil formed from the River Ebro flooding its course over thousands of years. The soils at Viña Lanciano are linked to the course of the Ebro, which are a result of the increases and decreases of the river over the years. The soils are composed of pebbles, gravel and sand, which allow for slow and balanced grape ripening. Due to the location of the vineyards, which are in the shadows of the Cantabria Mountains, the vines are protected from frost and extreme summer heat. The soil, climate and location creates a very special microclimate, producing balanced and perfectly ripened grapes. Their vines are of up to 60 years old and are comprised of Tempranillo, Mazuelo, Graciano and Garnacha. They age the wines separately, according to their origin, and continuously test out different types of oak: French, American, hybrid barrels – which we pioneered the use of – and the recently introduced Pyrenean oak. Tome of LAN’s most special and unique wines have been born under Maria’s guidance, such as D-12, the selection of tank number 12, or more recently, LAN Xtrème Organic, the embodiment of the philosophy of both the winery and María in being deeply committed to the land and a more sustainable future. Tasting Note: Deep, very intense garnet red in colour. The bouquet shows intense aromas of cranberries, very ripe red fruit, prunes and dried apricots. Liqueur-like notes, along with vanilla, cinnamon and resin. It is expressed through sensations of ripe fruit, full of power and character; The use of aging in French oak barrels brings complexity. It is surprising that a young vineyard such as that of Ecological Mantible results in a wine with such a marked character, of excellent structure. Broad and elegant on the finish. Food Matches: Casseroles / Lamb / Smoked Fish / Soft Cheese