Community Tasting Note

ptaylor2112 wrote:

Sunday, April 7, 2024 - Vertical of:

2018 LAN Crianza
2015 LAN Reserva
2005 LAN Gran Reserva

It’s always nice to try an extended Rioja vertical. You really get a sense of the house style. The last time I did a LAN vertical was with the 2012, 2010, and 2008. I like that LAN does not overdo the usage of oak. All wines were paired with Spanish-style meatballs in tomato sauce, as well as Moroccan lentil chili with couscous.

The 2018 LAN Crianza had a touch of oak and mint on the nose. It clashed a bit with the tomatoes. Recommend pairing with lighter proteins like roast chicken or pork loin. Drink now.

The 2015 LAN Reserva offers chocolate and a hint of mint on the nose, as well as bit of chocolate on the palate. It paired very well with the meatballs and chili. It is a terrific value, often found under $20. This is approaching or at peak. Drink now through 2030.

The 2005 LAN Gran Reserva nose was very similar to the 2015 Reserva. It showed tertiary color and flavor (a bit of prune). It would pair very well with unsauced red meat, such as steak with a dash of black pepper. Rioja Gran Reservas have the stones to be birth year wines without breaking the bank, and this is no exception. Drink now through 2028.

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