2021 Bodegas Lan - Tempranillo Rioja Crianza (750ml)
The 2021 Bodegas LAN Tempranillo Rioja Crianza is the flagship expression from a bodega whose name, LAN, honors the three provinces that form Rioja DOCa: Logroño, Álava, and Navarra. This wine brings together fruit from trusted growers in Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa, blending higher-altitude fruit from the Sierra Cantabria foothills for aromatics and freshness with the slightly warmer sites of Rioja Alta for richness and body. The vines range from 10 to 20 years old, contributing depth and balance to the final wine.
Winemaking and aging are central to LAN’s identity. The wine spends 14 months in LAN's signature hybrid barrels—American oak staves with French oak heads—followed by 9 months of bottle aging before release. This careful maturation yields a wine that is well integrated yet expressive, with the structure to age gracefully and the fruit detail to remain inviting now.
Tasting profile: expect a harmonious balance of red plums and cherries, complemented by subtle sweet spices and a touch of vanilla. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with juicy red fruit, smooth tannins, and a fairly long, well-grained finish. The overall impression is fluid and approachable, yet with enough nuance to satisfy more discerning palates.
Why this Rioja Crianza stands out: it delivers classic Tempranillo character—brightness from the higher-altitude fruit, depth from the Rioja Alta component, and a distinctive oak signature that melds American and French influences. It’s designed to be an everyday Rioja that drinks beautifully upon release while offering measurable structure for short-term aging.
Food pairings and occasions: its bright fruit and gentle spice make it a versatile partner for a wide range of dishes. Pair with roast chicken, grilled lamb chops, mushroom risotto, or tomato-based tapas. It also complements aged cheeses and charcuterie boards, making it a reliable choice for weeknight dinners or relaxed gatherings.
Drinking window: best enjoyed now through 2028.