Lan Ecológico 2020

Bodegas LAN was founded in 1972 in the Rioja Alta, its name drawn from the three provinces of the appellation: Logrono, Alava and Navarra. The grapes for Lan Ecologico come entirely from a certified organic plot of Tempranillo, the grape at the heart of Rioja. The Rioja Alta sits at altitude in the upper Ebro valley, with a cooler climate influenced by the Atlantic to the west, which gives a longer ripening season and keeps the fresh acidity and balance the region is known for. The soils here are a mix of clay-limestone and alluvial terraces, which suit Tempranillo and lend structure. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, a Crianza-level maturation that softens the tannins and adds vanilla, clove and a light toast to the fruit. It pours a deep cherry red. The nose shows dark cherry, plum and red berries over spice and a savoury oak note. On the palate it is juicy and elegant, medium bodied with fresh acidity and supple tannins, finishing on tobacco and vanilla. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees with roast lamb, grilled meat or hard cheese.