2019 RIOJA, Bodegas LAN, Xtreme Organic Crianza. Spain

Based in Rioja Alta Bodegas Lan was founded in 1972 and was purchased by Sogrape in 2012. They own 108 hectares in both Rioja (including the prestigious Viña Lanciano vineyard in La Alta) and Rías Baixas. The name “Lan” comes from the initials of the 3 Rioja provinces of Logroño, Álava, and Navarra.  All production is overseen by technical director María Barúa – a Riojan local – who has been in charge for over 20 years.

100% Tempranillo and fully certified organic. This is medium bodied with bright notes of strawberry and cranberry, and silky tannins with plush vanilla oak – in essence a classical Crianza style.

The Xtrème cuvée is made from a 5 hectare plot of organically grown Tempranillo grapes within Viña Lanciano at an altitude of 400 metres. Hand harvested grapes were fermented using native yeasts and then transferred to new French oak barrels and aged 14 months. 2018 was a cooler than average vintage so there is a natural freshness to the wine, without any loss of ripeness.

This wine is ready to drink now but can be kept and enjoyed over the next 5 years when it should develop more savoury notes. No need to decant but can give it an hour or so airing prior to drinking.