Bodegas LAN, Rioja Crianza

Founded in 1972, Bodegas LAN lies in the heart of Rioja Alta and boasts one of the most spectacular single-vineyard sites in the region: Viña Lanciano. The name LAN comes from the initials of the three provinces of the Rioja Designation of Origin: Logroño, Álava and Navarra. María Barúa has been the head winemaker and technical director since 2002 and brings both scientific expertise (with an academic background in chemistry in addition to her oenology degree) and local knowledge (having been born and raised in Rioja). Together with her young and energetic team, María focuses on using the latest advances in winemaking to ‘express the virtues of the land’.

VINEYARDS

The Tempranillo, Mazuelo and Garnacha grapes for the Bodegas LAN Crianza are sourced from trusted growers in the Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa subzones. Fruit from vineyards at higher altitude in the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria in Rioja Alavesa brings aromatics and freshness to the blend while fruit from slightly warmer sites in Rioja Alta brings richness and body. The vines are aged between 10 to 20 years old and produce low yields of concentrated fruit able to stand up to ageing in oak barrels.

VINTAGE

2017 was a challenging vintage in Rioja. The growing season got off to a difficult start when an April frost damaged many of the young buds and reduced yields. This was followed by a long drought. However, much-needed rain fell in August and gave the vines the necessary boost to see them through the final stages of ripening. The harvest was one of the earliest on record and despite the smaller quantities than usual, the quality was high and the grapes had a superb concentration of flavour.

TASTING NOTES

This wine is intense cherry red in colour. Aromas of ripe strawberries, raspberries and cranberries are framed by subtle notes of vanilla and spice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with silky tannins and a bright acidity which carries the aromas onto the lingering finish.