2015 Bodegas LAN Vina Lanciano Rioja Reserva

Rioja is Spain’s fine wine capital, a region characterised by rich tradition and innovation for over a century and a half.  Its high-altitude, clay/limestone soils and continental climate provide perfect conditions for growing fine wine.  The red wines are a blend of grapes, mainly Tempranillo and Garnacha (grenache) with others playing a supporting role such as Graciano, Marzullo (carignan) and even some white varieties.  Traditionally red Rioja wine is fermented fast and then matured in old American oak barrels.  A wonderful variety of styles are produced and the quality hierarchy is based on the amount of oak ageing, Crianza, the youngest aged wines, followed by reserva and gran reserva at the top.  The Spanish, unlike the French, do the ageing for you before the wine is released!

Founded in 1972, Bodegas LAN lies in the heart of Rioja Alta.  The name LAN comes from the initials of the three provinces of the Rioja Designation of Origin: Logroño, Álava and Navarra.  Viña Lanciano is Bodegas LAN’s flagship vineyard in Rioja Alta and it is arguably one of Rioja’s finest single-vineyard sites. A meander of the River Ebro surrounds the vineyard and creates the perfect microclimate for the vines which are up to 60 years of age. The Riojas produced from grapes grown here are powerful, perfumed and beautifully balanced.

This wine is bright crimson in colour with purple hues. Elegant aromas of ripe red and black fruits, liquorice and sweet spice are combined with a smokiness from the oak and earthy, leathery aromas from the bottle age.  The palate is silky and elegant, showcasing ripe fruits and finely integrated tannins. This is a remarkable Rioja with wonderful elegance and finesse.