This is a fantastic example of Rioja wine at the Crianza level. Expect aromas of raspberry, cherry, and cinnamon stick with subtle hints of oak influence; silky smooth red fruit and just a touch of spice on the palate with no hard edges whatsoever. Tasted Feb 2012.
Case this sucker up. This is my one year anniversary for this blog and one of my favorite wines has been re-released. Thank you Mr. LAN. www.getyourwineon.ca
Medium body. Raspberry, rhubarb, cinnamon, oaky and tannic with a medium finish. I agree that this could benefit from decanting to soften it.
The 2007 Bodegas Lan Crianza is a light bodied, fruity to integrated wine, with notes of red currant, coconut, vanilla and oak. Tannins are subtle to refined (decant for 30 min) and the finish is medium. Drink now and for the next 2 years. My impression: NICE, 88 pts. Tasted Feb/12.
If you would like to see wines I recommend and that are still available at the LCBO, please visit this link (listed in my profile):
http://www.winealign.com/wino/dantrcka/recommended-wines-you-can-still-buy
A good lesson in Crianza Rioja that is all Tempranillo. Ruby colour in the glass, the wine gives off the classic Rioja aromas of American Oak. Cedar, dill, vanilla and spice box, with a touch of red cherry in the distant. The wine is on the lighter end of medium body, with medium tannins and juicy acidity. The oak flavours take the lead with some ripe red fruit on the finish. The wine shows good use of oak, but not very expressive of Tempranillo. Enjoy with olives, bruchetta, cured meats. Tasted April '12.