Over the past 2 years I have been fortunate to try 3 bottles of the 2008 LAN Reserva from Rioja. Some bottle variation with the two previous samples.... 1) opened 2 yrs ago on purchase, quite open and softish ripe fruit..2) More tense and some tannins indicate hold. So lets try #3!
2008 Bodegas LAN Rioja Reserva, Rioja Spain.
Medium to dark ruby in color. Opened one hour and decanted, very little sediment. Currant, herbs currant on the nose with "cherry" from across the table. Initial entry thought is still some tannins, not as soft as bottle 1! Nice fruit here, good balance and complex. Still needs some time I guess. Noted some oak notes as it opened, good traditional style in my opinion. Blackberry, cherry, some spice on a mid length finish.
Paired with BBQ pork chops, quinoa salad. Look for the 2010 in the stores.