Bodegas LAN Rioja Reserva comes from Bodegas LAN, a respected Rioja producer founded in 1972 in Fuenmayor in the Rioja Alta sub region of Spain’s Rioja DOCa. The winery’s name reflects the historic Rioja provinces of Logroño, Álava and Navarra. LAN is known for combining tradition and innovation, farming hand harvested vineyards on stony, calcareous and clay soils shaped by the Ebro River’s influence. The estate farms sustainably with careful vineyard management. The 2018 Rioja Reserva is a classic Rioja blend of primarily Tempranillo (around 92%) with small amounts of Mazuelo (about 4%) and Garnacha (about 4%), sourced from older vines in Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa. After destemming and fermentation in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation and approximately 22 months ageing in hybrid French and American oak barrels, followed by an extended period in bottle before release. It shows intense garnet colour with aromas of ripe plum, cherries, blackberries, vanilla spice and subtle earth notes. On the palate it is well structured with velvety tannins and vibrant acidity. It pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, hearty stews, grilled meats and mature hard cheeses.
