Lan a Mano 2022

LAN, founded in 1972 in Fuenmayor in Rioja Alta, makes a Mano from old vines of around 35 years in the Pago El Rincón within the Viña Lanciano estate, a celebrated bend of the river Ebro. The blend is led by Tempranillo at 85 percent with Mazuelo and Graciano, grown on the estate's clay and limestone soils where the moderating river and the shelter of the Sierra de Cantabria give a long, even ripening season. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in small cone shaped tanks, a shape that increases skin contact and improves colour and tannin extraction. Ageing combines French oak from Jupille and Tronçais with a period in new Caucasian oak, a slow process of oxygen exchange that polishes the firm tannins and layers in spice, while the old vine fruit supplies depth and concentration. The colour is a deep, dark ruby. The nose shows ripe black cherry, plum, liquorice and toasty oak spice. The palate is full bodied and structured, powerful yet approachable, with firm, ripe tannins, fresh acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant. It suits roast and grilled red meats and game.