The Tempranillo grapes for the 'Xtrème Ecológico' come from the 'Mantible Ecológico' parcel within the famed Viña Lanciano vineyard - a prime site within Rioja Alta, located on a meander of the River Ebro. The five-hectare, organically farmed plot overlooks the ruins of the Roman bridge of Mantible and sits at 400 metres above sea level with an east-west aspect. Soils are composed of sandy loam and pebbles and all of the grapes are hand harvested.

Vinification

2017 was a challenging vintage in Rioja. The growing season got off to a difficult start when an April frost damaged many of the young buds and reduced yields. This was followed by a long drought. However, much-needed rain fell in August and gave the vines the necessary boost to see them through the final stages of ripening. The harvest was one of the earliest on record and despite the smaller quantities than usual, quality was high and the grapes had superb concentration of flavour.

Upon arrival at the winery, the Tempranillo grapes were sorted twice - first by bunch and then by individual berry to ensure that only those in pristine condition made it into the final wine.

Fermentation with native yeasts took place in cone-shaped tanks and lasted for two to three weeks. During this time there were regular pump overs to optimise extraction of colour and flavour. After fermentation, the wine was transferred to new French oak barrels where it underwent malolactic fermentation and aged for 14 months.

Bodegas LAN, Rioja en tres letras – Bodegas LAN. D.O. Ca. Rioja