BODEGAS LAN | Rioja | Gran Reserva | 2016
tempranillo | carignan

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The wine we are going to review today is one that we’ve patiently kept in the queue for quite some time, as this is a genuine Rioja blend from northern Spain – Rioja Gran Reserva 2016 by Bodegas LAN. Rioja (which is Spain‘s most famous wine region) is known for its fruity-savory and dusty wines that have the ability to age well for many years. Rioja is one of very few european winemaking regions that uses american oak barrels for ageing. The region itself is moderated by the Sierra Cantabria – a small but jagged mountain range that stops clouds from coming into the Rioja valley. The wines of Rioja are based mainly on the tempranillo grape variety, which is the champion grape of the region. The wine we are reviewing today is produced only in the best vintages and is technically a blend, even though it is made mainly of tempranillo (97%) and just a bit of carignan (3% – known locally as mazuelo), where tempranillo forms the wine’s main body and structure, whereas carignan contributes to a leaner and more dynamic finish. In order to soften the tannins and add extra complexity to the final wine, it has been aged for 28 months in hybrid oak barrels, that combine american oak staves (which deliver the famous hints of vanilla and coconut), with french oak bases (which provide a touch of spice, cocoa and resinous notes).

After the barrel ageing, the wine has spent at least 36 more month in the bottle before deemed ready to be released on the market. The grapes for this wine were sourced from 40 years old vines planted on the slopes of Haro, Villalba, Foncea abd Cenicero vineyards in the heart of Rioja Alta. But enough theory, that said and without further ado, let’s take a look at the wine tasting results.
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Take a look at the tasting notes below and our detailed assessment of the wine:

//Visual
color: medium-deep garnet color
clarity: hazy garnet shades at the rim

//Olfactory
intensity: pronounced & oaky
fruit character: dried & dehydrated

The first impression of this Rioja Gran Reserva 2016 is an enticing mix of dried and dehydrated red and black fruit aromas. Think cranberries, plums and dark cherries that have been gently dried, offering a concentrated richness and a touch of velvety sweetness. Woven throughout these primary fruit notes are noble hints of oak, with notes of vanilla bean and baking spice, suggesting a lengthy aging process. In the background, there are whispers of earthiness, with hints of damp forest floor and leather, adding a touch of complexity and sophistication. Subtle hints of dried herbs, like thyme and oregano, peek through as well, further enhancing the wine’s already complex aromatic profile.

//Palate
sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: high | balance: good
finish: long | aftertaste: crisp

The palate follows the nose, offering a wave of dried and dehydrated red fruit flavors like plums and redcurrants. These are complemented by hints of spice, like black pepper or clove, and subtle earthy notes. The bright acidity cuts through the initial richness, keeping the wine lively on the tongue. The tannins are ripe and noticeably grippy, adding structure and a firm feel to the wine. A touch of alcoholic warmth is present, but it integrates well with the overall balance. The finish is crisp and lingers pleasantly on the tongue, while the mouthfeel is round, firm, and well-structured, with the tannins providing structure and a pleasant grip without being harsh.

//Verdict
maturity: in its prime | drink now or within 2 years
verdict: great | a must try wine | a wine that has all the traits to become legendary

Overall, this is a genuine Rioja wine that showcases the tempranillo grape variety at its best. It offers a rich and complex profile with a focus on dried fruit character, balanced by savory elements and a noble touch of oak. That sad, the wine maybe lacks just o bit of finesse and elegance one might expect from a truly exceptional Rioja. Nonetheless, this example could be a great choice for those who appreciate a bold and well structured red wine with a focus on ripe and dried fruit flavors, however those seeking a more refined and elegant Rioja, might find this one as lacking some subtlety.

//Scoring
BODEGAS LAN | Rioja | Gran Reserva | 2016
variety: tempranillo | carignan
country: Spain
region: Rioja
rating: 94.6
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This is definitely a great wine of Spain and, with a total of 94.6 points scored, this wine is right there, among the best wines we’ve rated so far. Check our complete database on the wine rating page, where you can find all the wines that we have tasted and reviewed or go to the about us page and find out more about our exquisite rating system.

Pairing: Due to this wine’s emphasis on dried fruit character with hints of earth and spice, balanced by bright acidity, firm tannins, and a touch of alcoholic warmth, we believe it would be best suited for a rich and flavorful dish with a touch of sweetness to complement the wine’s dried fruit notes. Braised lamb shanks with a sweet and savory sauce would be a fantastic pairing option, as the richness of the lamb would complement the wine’s ample body and tannins, while the sweetness of the sauce would echo the dried fruit character in the wine. In the same key, the savory elements of the lamb would harmonize with the earthy notes in the wine, creating a very appealing interplay of textures and flavors. This pairing would allow the wine’s complex character to shine through, thus creating a delightful tasting experience. Enjoy!

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© The WineStatistics ratings are based solely on our own knowledge of the world of wine and on our personal wine tastes, which may, or may not, differ from yours – the reader. Just remember that there are no absolutes of right and wrong in wine appreciation.