2012 Vina Lanciano Rioja Reserva

2012 Vina Lanciano Rioja Reserva

We uncorked this 2012 Viña Lanciano Rioja by Bodegas LAN when we recently grilled some filet mignon kabobs over charcoal and it was a perfect match.  This wine would pair beautifully with Thanksgiving foods.

According toBodegas LAN Viña Lanciano is the architect of the original philosophy of our winery. Its name reflects the essence of a unique enclave and the river that embraces it in this magical place, with vestiges of ancient history, such as the remains of the Mantible bridge of Roman origin that stars in its label. Viña Lanciano condenses the philosophy and know-how of LAN since its inception.

This Spanish wine is made from a selection of 30+ year-old vines located in Bodegas LAN’s Viña Lanciano estate.

Nice wine with a great ageing potential.

About Bodegas LAN

Bodegas LAN is one of the top Rioja regional producers in the region. Founded in 1972, Bodegas LAN is named after the first letters of the three provinces in the DOCa Rioja: Logroño, Álava and Navarra.

Bodegas LAN mixes the best of Rioja tradition and modern winemaking with their pioneer approach to aging in the highest quality oak barrels, crafted by the world’s best coopers – including French, American, Russian and hybrids.

Viña Lanciano is both a wine and a vineyard, made from vines planted in one of the region’s most exquisite settings nestled on 175 acres. It is a representation of LAN’s pioneering commitment and dedication to the land.

Winemaker and technical director María Barúa and her team practice viniculture sustainability with their signature vineyard Viña Lanciano.

About 2012 Vina Lanciano Rioja Reserva

Looks: Bright cherry red/purplish in the glass

Smell: Intense dark/black berry and fruit on the nose with hints of pumpkin pie spice on the finish

Taste: Chocolate-covered cherries, licorice with a bit of spice on the palate

Texture and Finish: Medium to full-bodied, silky mouth-coating texture, medium level of tannins and textbook Viña Lanciano estate minerality on the finish.

Pairings: Grilled meat, stews, aged cheeses

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): 90% Tempranillo, 8% Graciano and 2% Mazuelo

Region: Rioja, Spain

Price: $26

Cheers,

Veronique

This wine was provided to me for sampling and I am adding it to my repertoire as it’s truly enjoyable.

Sick of White Wine Yet?

Sick of White Wine Yet?

Wine SteakIt’s hot and muggy outside and for many, including me, the weather calls for light, refreshing white wines. While I’ve poured my share of Assyrtiko, Sauvignon Blanc and Albarino this summer, I’m now craving reds that pair well with burgers, ribs and steaks.

15 Red Wines to Uncork at Summer Barbecues:

Wines for Burgers:

  • 2007 Campo Viejo Reserva Rioja (Rioja, Spain) – $9.99
  • 2010 Alba Vineyards Old Mill Red (Musconetcong Valley, New Jersey, USA) – $11.99
  • 2011 Garnet Vineyards Pinot Noir (Monterey County, California, USA) – $14.99
  • 2009 Albert Bichot Pinot Noir Vielles Vignes (Burgundy, France) – $14.99
  • 2011 Hahn Pinot Noir (Monterey County, California, USA) – $15.99

Wines for Ribs:

  • 2010 Graffigna Centenario Malbec Reserve (San Juan, Argentina) – $10.99
  • 2009 Villa Puccini Toscana (Tuscany, Italy) – $10.99
  • 2010 Predator Old Vine Zinfandel (Central Valley, California, USA) – $11.99
  • 2010 Renwood Winery Premier Old Vine Zinfandel (Amador County, California, USA) – $19.99
  • 2011 Seghesio Sonoma County Zinfandel (Sonoma County, California, USA) – $23.99

Wines for Steaks:

  • 2008 Wyndham Estate BIN 555 Shiraz  (South Eastern, Australia) – $9.99
  • 2010 Montes Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenere (Colchagua Valley, Chile) – $10.99
  • 2010 Jacob’s Creek Reserve Barossa Shiraz (Barossa Valley, Australia) – $14.99
  • 2008 Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre (Valpolicella, Italy) – $16.99
  • 2009 Esporao Reserva Red (Alentejo, Portugal) – $18.99

What are some of your affordable reds?

Cheers,

Veronique

2005 LAN Rioja Gran Reserva

2005 LAN Rioja Gran Reserva

2005 LAN Rioja Gran ReservaThis Spanish Rioja is inky black in the glass and offers aromas of ripe cherries with herby and a little funky notes. Chocolate-covered cherries and dark berry flavors on this great example of Rioja. It’s a little tannic and peppery on the finish.

Pairings: Grilled meats, spicy food, barbecue

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): 85% Tempranillo, 10% Mazuelo and 5% Graciano

Region: Rioja, Spain

Price: $25

2006 Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva

2006 Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva

Made of three varietals, Tempranillo, Graciano and Mazuelo, this Rioja is dark cherry ruby with a pale ring in the glass that reminds me of some of my favorite California Pinot Noirs.  On the nose are aromas of wet wood, stone fruits and vanilla.  On the palate, this lighter-bodied Spanish wine offers cherries, some rosy notes and a creamy, velvety mouthfeel with a slightly spicy, smooth, long finish.

Had this wine with a platter of cured meats and it was super.  Would be great with grilled meats such as pork or chicken and with heartier fish like swordfish.

This wine was provided to me for sampling and I’m adding to my repertoire as it’s truly enjoyable.

Pairings: Grilled meats, lasagna bolognese

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo

Region: Rioja, Spain

Price: $10