LAN D-12 Rioja – Sustainable
A concentrated, modern-style Rioja, made from 100% Tempranillo grapes.
Grapes are from a 30-year-old vineyard located in Lanciego (Rioja Alavesa) and a 15-year-old vineyard in Briones (Rioja Alta).
Alcoholic cold fermentation in stainless steel tanks in order to maintain aromatic potential and maximize colour extraction. Micro-oxygenation and lees-stirring were carried out in vat number 12 in the period between alcoholic fermentation and malolactic fermentation, in order to stabilize the aromatic and phenolic compounds and achieve greater volume on the palate, softening the tannins.
Twelve months aging in barrels: 70% new American oak sourced in the Appalachians and 30% new French oak from the forests of Chateauroux and Loches. The extra-fine-grained wood was selected and dried naturally for 36 months to obtain fine and elegant oak that integrates perfectly with the wine. Very careful aging aimed at maintaining the intense fruit, adding the necessary aromatic complexity and refining the tannins.
Deep, very intense garnet red. Intense aromas of cranberries, very ripe red fruit, prunes, and dried apricots. Liqueur-like notes, along with vanilla, cinnamon, and resin. Structured, broad, and flavorful on the palate.
92 points, Wine Enthusiast: A dark color and ripe aromas of blackberry, prune, lemony oak and graphite get this crianza off to a serious start. A concentrated palate feel is juiced up by bright acidity, while this tastes of wild berry fruits topped with chocolaty oak. Drink this smooth operator through 2025.
Bodegas LAN is a relative newcomer to the Rioja scene, having been founded in 1972. The name “LAN” is an acronym for the three provinces that make up Rioja, Logroño, Alava, and Navarra.
LAN produces some of the most consistent, value-driven examples of Rioja on the market, and is also is an established leader on the premium side. LAN’s iconic 72 hectare Viña Lanciano vineyard sits on a breathtaking natural meander along the Ebro river and is the basis for most of the company’s top bottlings.
The spirit of experimentation and innovation permeates the culture at LAN, and winemaker María Barúa is continually pushing the limits and preconceptions people have of the region.