LAN In The Press Jan-May 2020

JAN - MAY
2020

Jan 16, 2020
Circulation 1,110

Making New Friends in Rioja

he past year, for too many reasons to consider, was nearly devoid of any wine writing. With the goal of
turning that around in 2020, I’m going to recap a few events from last year, and then climb up the ladder
for another dive into the deep pool that is the world of wine. Cheers!

Most wineries, except for the behemoths that are proud of their size and strength, want you to believe that
they are committed more to quality than quantity. They’ll say it to anybody who listens, and keep saying it
just in case somebody within shouting distance didn’t get the message. Unfortunately, not all of them are
honest. Well, maybe not objective or realistic is a better way to put it. Of course, there are too many
smaller wineries that say this but only get the quantity part of the equation right.

Bodegas LAN from Rioja is actually one of those wineries that tells the truth and backs it up. Their
commitment to quality is deliberate, consistent, and can be found in every wine they produce.

A few months back I had the chance to taste their wines at Bellota in San Francsico with several other
wine writers. We were hosted by Enrique Abiega, CEO of Bodegas LAN, and Trinidad Villegas, the
winery’s director for USA exports. The event was organized by Gregory + Vine, and hosted by Trish
Heywood, their managing director.
We learned quite a bit about LAN (the name is an acronym representing the three provinces of the Rioja
DOCa: Logroño, Álava, and Navarra), its history, current organic farming practices, and a great deal
about their winemaking. For these matters and all things LAN, head over to www.bodegaslan.com and
take a closer look at what makes this winery worth watching.
While so much of what we heard that afternoon was indeed interesting, the real story, of course, was in
the glasses in front of us. And what became clear, rather quickly, was that these wines played well above
their price points. Ridiculously so in a few instances. Not all wines show their best in moments like this, for
a seemingly infinite number of reasons. But the LAN selections that afternoon were singing for us.

We were greeted at the door with a cool glass of white wine from one of LAN’s recent acquisitions in
Rias Baixas in northwestern Spain. Their Santiago Ruiz “O Rosal” albarino was a welcome start to the
event. Aromatic, crisp and clean, with mouth-watering acid, and lots of citrus flavors, and just a bit of a
minerally finish. 13% abv SRP $20

The meal opened with a group of tapas, including this bright salad of heirloom tomatoes, stonefruit,
cucumber, migas, jimmy nardellos, and topped with shavings of six-month-old manchego cheese.

Along with the salad we enjoyed dishes of ethereal patatas bravas — crispy Kennebec potatoes, chipotle
bravas salsa, and smoky aioli.

The raciones, or main dishes, of the tasting lunch, gave us a mushroom paella, with autumn squash,
broccoli di ciccio, sunchokes, chesntnuts, pickled red onions, and pomegranate. Guests also enjoyed a
chuleton, a wood-grilled, dry-aged Flannery beef steak, with Basque tximitxurri, bone marrow holandesa,
and shallot butter. The delicious food at Bellota made focusing on the wines that much more challenging.
The heart of the afternoon, of course, was the wine. Not a bad sip to be had, and more than a few
surprises. Here are my brief tasting notes, in order.

LAN D12 2015: On the nose obvious notes of American and French oak, and plenty for red and black
fruit. Velvety mouthfeel carrying complex flavors and fine, mouth-coating tannins and plenty of bright acid.
100% tempranillo. SRP $18 14% abv

LAN D12 2016: A cooler vintage than the preceding year, giving the wine a tight concentration, and a
mostly muted nose. Similar profile to the ’15 but definitely needs more time in the bottle. Both of these
wines were spectacular values. Most guests figured they retailed at twice the price. 100% tempranillo.
SRP $18. 13.5% abv

Viña Lanciano reserva 2012: This wine is only produced in stellar vintages. In this line, the next one, still
unreleased, will be the 2015. There are bright red cherry aromas, and a mild whiff of oak. Loads of
mouth-watering acid, soft tannins, and a long lingering finish. Another great value. 90% tempranillo, 8%
graciano, 2% mazuelo. SRP $25. 13.5% abv

LAN Edición Limitada 2013: More bright red fruit on the nose and in the mouth. I detected hints of what I
thought was cedar but was told that this wine was aged in a blend of new French oak and some Russian
oak. On the palate it is all about the fruit and the acid; balanced, complex and juicy. 82% tempranillo, 10%
mazuelo, 8% graciano. SRP $40-50. 13.5% abv

LAN Edición Limitada 2016: This wine underwent malolactic conversion in new French oak and then was
aged in the same, followed by four months in new Russian oak. Nose was tight but red and black fruit
detected. The alcohol, still integrating, was peeking around the corner a bit. On the palate you find layers
of tart, red fruit and abundant, crisp acid; again, the alcohol has its shirt slightly untucked. 85%
tempranillo, 10% graciano, 5% mazuelo. SRP $40-50. 13.5% abv

LAN Xtreme 2014: This was the first public tasting for this vintage; only 5000 bottles made (415 cases
approximately). Floral aromas dominate, with abundant red fruit and hints of vanilla. The palate is
concentrated and balanced; plenty of refreshing acid and grippy tannins. The wine is complex, with a
long, subtle finish. 100% tempranillo. Certified organic. SRP $20. 14% abv

LAN Xtreme 2015: Eight thousand bottles (660 cases approximately) produced, and now available in
USA market. Complex aromas of red fruit, vanilla, cedar, earth. Palate is all dark, dark fruit. Impressive
concentration and balance; rich mouthfeel; energetic acid. Needs more time in the bottle. Great QPR!
(quality-price ratio) 100% tempranillo. Certified organic. SRP $18. 14% abv

Both XTremes are still integrating and will benefit from a few more years someplace cool and quiet. While
one could not be blamed for diving into them immediately, patience with these bottles will be rewarded.
Terrific wines at grab-em-up prices.

Jan 22, 2020
Circulation 173,900

2020 Vision—What You’ll See from Bodegas LAN This Year

January 21, 2020 (New York, NY) – Welcome to a new year and a new decade. Here is what’s next on
the horizon for Bodegas LAN. After the success of 2019—with numerous wines included on several “Best
of” lists for the year and the release of LAN Xtreme Organic into the US market—the winery continues to
expand reach and influence stateside. Here are four things to get excited for in 2020:

New vintages: Several new vintages will head into market this year, including LAN Gran Reserva 2011 in
January and LAN Reserva 2014 in February.
LAN Experiences: The winery opened a new tasting room in late 2019, and in conjunction with the space,
they are also offering two new wine tourism experiences. LAN in Three Letters includes a tour of the
winery and a tasting of three wines with an appetizer. LAN in a Barrel includes a tour of the winery and a
tasting of wines that have been aged for different amounts of time in different types of oak, allowing
visitors to get to know one of the winery’s best-kept secrets.
Concentrico 2020: The Viña Lanciano estate is one of the key sites for Concéntrico—Logroño’s
International Architecture and Design Festival—and the only installation that is created outside the city’s
historic center. The 2020 edition of the event will take place April 29-May 30. Amaya Cebrián, Director of
Marketing and Communication at LAN, will be part of the jury that will chose the Viña Lanciano art
installation. The official announcement will take place on January 23.
In market visits: After winemaker María Barúa’s successful first tour to the U.S. in 2019, she will return in
spring this year to visit additional cities and meet with select media for interviews and one-on-one
tastings.
If you are interested in wines for review, or if you want to connect with members of the Bodegas LAN
team, contact Stefanie Schwalb ([email protected]). Learn more about Bodegas LAN at
www.bodegaslan.com.

About Bodegas LAN – Rioja in Three Letters

With a connection to the land that is inherent to the origin of their winery, Bodegas LAN is named after the
first letters of the three provinces in the DOCa Rioja: Logroño, Álava and Navarra. Founded in 1972,
LAN’s innovative character is forged in each of the wines they make, based on conscientious vineyard
management and precision winemaking. Bodegas LAN seamlessly blends 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. With the remains of the
Mantible bridge as a witness throughout the centuries, the wholly owned Viña Lanciano has been – and
continues to be – the essence and origin of Bodegas LAN. From the very beginning in the 1970s, it has
been the winery’s bedrock and a symbol of its identity. 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.

Jan 22, 2020
Circulation 94,390

2020 Vision—What You’ll See from Bodegas LAN This Year

January 21, 2020 (New York, NY) – Welcome to a new year and a new decade. Here is what’s next on
the horizon for Bodegas LAN. After the success of 2019—with numerous wines included on several “Best
of” lists for the year and the release of LAN Xtreme Organic into the US market—the winery continues to
expand reach and influence stateside. Here are four things to get excited for in 2020:

New vintages: Several new vintages will head into market this year, including LAN Gran Reserva 2011 in
January and LAN Reserva 2014 in February.
LAN Experiences: The winery opened a new tasting room in late 2019, and in conjunction with the space,
they are also offering two new wine tourism experiences. LAN in Three Letters includes a tour of the
winery and a tasting of three wines with an appetizer. LAN in a Barrel includes a tour of the winery and a
tasting of wines that have been aged for different amounts of time in different types of oak, allowing
visitors to get to know one of the winery’s best-kept secrets.
Concentrico 2020: The Viña Lanciano estate is one of the key sites for Concéntrico—Logroño’s
International Architecture and Design Festival—and the only installation that is created outside the city’s
historic center. The 2020 edition of the event will take place April 29-May 30. Amaya Cebrián, Director of
Marketing and Communication at LAN, will be part of the jury that will chose the Viña Lanciano art
installation. The official announcement will take place on January 23.
In market visits: After winemaker María Barúa’s successful first tour to the U.S. in 2019, she will return in
spring this year to visit additional cities and meet with select media for interviews and one-on-one
tastings.
If you are interested in wines for review, or if you want to connect with members of the Bodegas LAN
team, contact Stefanie Schwalb ([email protected]). Learn more about Bodegas LAN at
www.bodegaslan.com.

About Bodegas LAN – Rioja in Three Letters

With a connection to the land that is inherent to the origin of their winery, Bodegas LAN is named after the
first letters of the three provinces in the DOCa Rioja: Logroño, Álava and Navarra. Founded in 1972,
LAN’s innovative character is forged in each of the wines they make, based on conscientious vineyard
management and precision winemaking. Bodegas LAN seamlessly blends 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. With the remains of the
Mantible bridge as a witness throughout the centuries, the wholly owned Viña Lanciano has been – and
continues to be – the essence and origin of Bodegas LAN. From the very beginning in the 1970s, it has
been the winery’s bedrock and a symbol of its identity. 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.

Jan 22, 2020
Circulation 94,390

Newsletter

By Wine Industry Advisor

Jan 22, 2020
Circulation 66,390

2020 Vision—What You’ll See from Bodegas LAN This Year

January 21, 2020 (New York, NY) – Welcome to a new year and a new decade. Here is what’s next on
the horizon for Bodegas LAN. After the success of 2019—with numerous wines included on several “Best
of” lists for the year and the release of LAN Xtreme Organic into the US market—the winery continues to
expand reach and influence stateside. Here are four things to get excited for in 2020:

New vintages: Several new vintages will head into market this year, including LAN Gran Reserva 2011 in
January and LAN Reserva 2014 in February.
LAN Experiences: The winery opened a new tasting room in late 2019, and in conjunction with the space,
they are also offering two new wine tourism experiences. LAN in Three Letters includes a tour of the
winery and a tasting of three wines with an appetizer. LAN in a Barrel includes a tour of the winery and a
tasting of wines that have been aged for different amounts of time in different types of oak, allowing
visitors to get to know one of the winery’s best-kept secrets.
Concentrico 2020: The Viña Lanciano estate is one of the key sites for Concéntrico—Logroño’s
International Architecture and Design Festival—and the only installation that is created outside the city’s
historic center. The 2020 edition of the event will take place April 29-May 30. Amaya Cebrián, Director of
Marketing and Communication at LAN, will be part of the jury that will chose the Viña Lanciano art
installation. The official announcement will take place on January 23.
In market visits: After winemaker María Barúa’s successful first tour to the U.S. in 2019, she will return in
spring this year to visit additional cities and meet with select media for interviews and one-on-one
tastings.
If you are interested in wines for review, or if you want to connect with members of the Bodegas LAN
team, contact Stefanie Schwalb ([email protected]). Learn more about Bodegas LAN at
www.bodegaslan.com.

About Bodegas LAN – Rioja in Three Letters

With a connection to the land that is inherent to the origin of their winery, Bodegas LAN is named after the
first letters of the three provinces in the DOCa Rioja: Logroño, Álava and Navarra. Founded in 1972,
LAN’s innovative character is forged in each of the wines they make, based on conscientious vineyard
management and precision winemaking. Bodegas LAN seamlessly blends 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. With the remains of the
Mantible bridge as a witness throughout the centuries, the wholly owned Viña Lanciano has been – and
continues to be – the essence and origin of Bodegas LAN. From the very beginning in the 1970s, it has
been the winery’s bedrock and a symbol of its identity. 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.

Jan 23, 2020
Circulation 9,600,000

This Affordable Wine Is One of the Most Underrated in the World

By Brian Freedman

Enjoying an older bottle of red usually requires either some serious money or the kind of patience that I
just don’t have.

Except when it comes to Rioja Gran Reserva.

Unlike the great wines of, say, Bordeaux or Barolo, which often need decades of rest before they’re
ready, Rioja Gran Reserva, from the Rioja region in northern Spain, generally bypasses that issue.

Not that they’re all at their peak as soon as they’re released. Some of them, depending on the kind of
barrels they’ve been aged in and the nature of the vintage and the blend, still need a few more years to
absorb their oak; others are raring to go as soon as you pop the cork. Regardless, my tasting for this
piece showed what fans of the style have known all along: Rioja Gran Reserva often acts like some sort
of vinous crystal ball, offering a glimpse of what the future of the wine will hold, and usually without the
necessity of aging it for any longer than the trip between the wine shop and the kitchen table.

Much of this has to do with the production regulations that producers of red Rioja Gran Reserva have to
follow. According to the Consejo Regulador, the region’s governing body, Gran Reserva “are wines of
great vintages that have been painstakingly aged for a total of sixty months with at least two years in oak
barrels and two years in the bottle.” The majority of Rioja tends to be a blend of Tempranillo and
Garnacha, with Graciano, Mazuelo, and Maturana Tinta also permitted. Exceptions, however, are
increasingly available.

Even within those parameters, there is a remarkable range of stylistic expressions. Most producers lean
heavily on American oak, but there are others who prefer to leverage wood from France and elsewhere.
The ratio of new to used barrels is also important, as is the amount of time that a particular vintage is laid
down in the producer’s cellars, beyond the minimum, before being released. The terroir in which the
grapes were grown is, as always, a key consideration as well.

Before delving into the highlights of my tasting for this piece, I have a quick word about the Rioja Reserva
category, which have to be aged for at least three years, including 12 months in barrel and six months in

bottle. Because they’re released sooner than Gran Reservas, Rioja Reservas often need a bit more time
to mature or, barring that, a healthy stint in a decanter.

The case can be made that Rioja Gran Reserva is one of the most underrated wines on the planet, and
for the money, easily one of the best deals. I love Bordeaux, Barolo, Burgundy, and the other great, age-
worthy wines that are the centerpieces of so many serious wine collections, but I have an increasingly
hard time affording them.

Excellent Rioja Gran Reserva, on the other hand, can be found for $30 or less. Here are five of them
within that price range, listed alphabetically. If you want to spend more, keep an eye out for the Gran
Reservas of R. López de Heredia, Marqués de Riscal, and Bodegas Muga, which are reliably delicious,
too.

2010 Beronia Rioja Gran Reserva ($30)

Dark and dense aromas of espresso, deeply roasted cacao nibs, and plum-spice cake set the stage for
an equally ripe palate, where plums and blackberry liqueur are joined by notes reminiscent of fernet,
charred mint leaf, balsamic reduction, black cardamom, and garam masala powder, as well as dark
cherries and toasty oak notes with vanilla pod.

2011 Bodegas LAN Rioja Gran Reserva ($23)

A savory aroma of iron lends bass-note heft to crushed blackberries and spice cake. The palate is more
sweetly generous with ripe fruit than expected, and all the more charming for it. Sweet spice, dried dates,
and a balanced punch of acidity keep this fresh and propelled forward. Amazing value.

2012 Campo Viejo Rioja Gran Reserva ($25)

Aromas of warm spices, tobacco, blueberries, and plums precede a generous, mineral-tinged palate that
washes over the tongue with coffee and gobs of ripe fruit—plums, dark cherries—and finishes with a
whisper of lavender and dried violets.

2011 Hacienda Lopez de Haro Rioja Gran Reserva ($30)

Beautifully mature and spicy aromas of sandalwood, cedar, cigar tobacco, and a hint of drying cherries
turn to a silky, energetic palate in which mint leaves and smoldering sage inform cherries, wild
strawberries, black raspberries, and more of that sweet spice and tobacco from the nose.

2010 La Antigua Classico Rioja Gran Reserva ($25)

High-toned and spicy, with bright red cherries, cranberries, and wild strawberries joined by scrubby herbs
and fresh-cracked green peppercorns. It all paves a path for a flower-tinged palate with loads of red
berries, a hint of cherry coulis spooned onto crème brûlée, and a dash of carob and floral peppercorns on
the finish. Energetic acidity and fantastic concentration.





February 28, 2020
Circulation: 94,390

Behind the Brand: Get to Know the Women of Bodegas LAN

International Women’s Day will be celebrated across the globe on March 8, and in the United States, the
entire month is devoted to women’s history. From Rioja Spain, we are celebrating the women of Bodegas
LAN. From winemaking to marketing and international sales, they have been helping lead the winery’s
success for nearly two decades. Here’s what you need to know about them:
María Barúa, Winemaker and Technical Director:

After studying Chemistry and Enology, María entered the world of wine via the Rioja Government’s
Training Grant for Researchers in Enological Chemistry. Through this, she took part in projects relating to
the color of Rioja’s red wines and how they change through barrel aging. María has come to apply all her
findings at Bodegas LAN, where she started working as Winemaker in 2002 and added Technical
Director to her title in 2007. Some of the most special and unique wines have been born during María’s
tenure, including D-12 and LAN Xtrème Organic. She is committed to the land and a more sustainable
future. She also has a great sense of humor—something that comes in very handy during a stressful
harvest time!
Trinidad Villegas, Export Director: Having worked with Bodegas LAN since 2000, Trinidad started with
just 5 wines in the portfolio. Today, that number is more than 15. In addition to managing exports to North
America, the UK and Ireland, Trinidad (who began her career with the winery in a public relations role) is
also in charge of Scandinavia and South America. Under her guidance, LAN wines have been placed in
nearly all 50 U.S. states. She is also highly skilled at packing the perfect suitcase for any road warriors
who seeking insights!
Amaya Cebrián, Director of Marketing and Communication: Amaya has been leading marketing and
communications efforts of Bodegas LAN since 2004. Highlights of her contributions to the winery include
the marketing and packaging of two additions to LAN’s portfolio, D-12 and LAN Xtrème Organic; the
creation of new wine tourism programs to enhance winery visits; and the launch of a highly engaging
website and influential global social media presence. Amaya has also seamlessly mastered the art of the
wine selfie!

March 2, 2020
Circulation: 94,390

Newsletter

Wine Industry Network





Lorea Amatria, Area Manager – USA: As the daughter of restaurant owners in Pamplona, Spain,
Lorea’s passion for wine and food began at an early age. After earning a degree in Agricultural
Engineering, she set out to build a career in the international Food & Wine Industry. Lorea then earned a
Master’s in International Business in Navarra, which led her to her current role as Bodegas LAN’s Area
Manager for the US. She applies her passion, skill and education to the growth of LAN stateside every
day. Lorea is also a WSET Level 3 candidate and earned her WSET Level 2 with distinction. She also
has the intel on all of the best wine bars and restaurants across the country!

Hannah Frost, Brand Ambassador – USA: Hannah recently joined the esteemed team of women at
Bodegas LAN. She is loving her role of introducing LAN’s high-quality portfolio to US buyers and sharing
insights on the wines and region with consumers. Hannah began her career in wine with Pernod Ricard.
A self-confessed life-long learner, she earned her Certified Specialist of Spirits from the Society of Wine
Educators and passed the Certified Sommelier exam from the Court of Master Sommeliers. In her free
time, Hannah also volunteers with the Junior League of Kansas City and hangs out with her adorable
Yorkie Chihuahua rescue, Livvy!

To coincide with National Women’s Month, we are happy to offer the LAN team as sources for insights
on success and the wine industry.

About Bodegas LAN – Rioja in Three Letters With a connection to the land that is inherent to the origin
of their winery, Bodegas LAN is named after the first letters of the three provinces in the DOCa Rioja:
Logroño, Álava and Navarra. Founded in 1972, LAN’s innovative character is forged in each of the wines
they make, based on conscientious vineyard management and precision winemaking. Bodegas LAN
seamlessly blends 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. With the remains of the Mantible bridge as a witness throughout the centuries, the
wholly owned Viña Lanciano has been – and continues to be – the essence and origin of Bodegas LAN.
From the very beginning in the 1970s, it has been the winery’s bedrock and a symbol of its identity. 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.





Mar 2, 2020
Circulation 66,390

BEHIND THE BRAND: GET TO KNOW THE WOMEN OF BODEGAS LAN

International Women’s Day will be celebrated across the globe on March 8, and in the United States, the
entire month is devoted to women’s history. From Rioja Spain, we are celebrating the women of Bodegas
LAN. From winemaking to marketing and international sales, they have been helping lead the winery’s
success for nearly two decades. Here’s what you need to know about them.

María Barúa, Winemaker and Technical Director:

After studying Chemistry and Enology, María entered the world of wine via the Rioja Government’s
Training Grant for Researchers in Enological Chemistry. Through this, she took part in projects relating to
the color of Rioja’s red wines and how they change through barrel aging. María has come to apply all her
findings at Bodegas LAN, where she started working as Winemaker in 2002 and added Technical
Director to her title in 2007. Some of the most special and unique wines have been born during María’s
tenure, including D-12 and LAN Xtrème Organic. She is committed to the land and a more sustainable
future. She also has a great sense of humor—something that comes in very handy during a stressful
harvest time!

Trinidad Villegas, Export Director:

Having worked with Bodegas LAN since 2000, Trinidad started with just 5 wines in the portfolio. Today,
that number is more than 15. In addition to managing exports to North America, the UK and Ireland,
Trinidad (who began her career with the winery in a public relations role) is also in charge of Scandinavia
and South America. Under her guidance, LAN wines have been placed in nearly all 50 U.S. states. She is
also highly skilled at packing the perfect suitcase for any road warriors who seeking insights!

Amaya Cebrián, Director of Marketing and Communication:

Amaya has been leading marketing and communications efforts of Bodegas LAN since 2004. Highlights
of her contributions to the winery include the marketing and packaging of two additions to LAN’s portfolio,
D-12 and LAN Xtrème Organic; the creation of new wine tourism programs to enhance winery visits; and
the launch of a highly engaging website and influential global social media presence. Amaya has also
seamlessly mastered the art of the wine selfie!

Lorea Amatria, Brand Manager / Area Manager – USA:

As the daughter of restaurant owners in Pamplona, Spain, Lorea’s passion for wine and food began at an
early age. After earning a degree in Agricultural Engineering, she set out to build a career in the
international Food & Wine Industry. Lorea then earned a Master’s in International Business in Navarra,
which led her to her current role as Bodegas LAN’s Export Manager for the US. She applies her passion,
skill and education to the growth of LAN stateside every day. Lorea is also a WSET Level 3 candidate

and earned her WSET Level 2 with distinction. She also has the intel on all of the best wine bars and
restaurants across the country!

Hannah Frost, Brand Ambassador – USA:

Hannah recently joined the esteemed team of women at Bodegas LAN. She is loving her role of
introducing LAN’s high-quality portfolio to US buyers and sharing insights on the wines and region with
consumers. Hannah began her career in wine with Pernod Ricard. A self-confessed life-long learner, she
earned her Certified Specialist of Spirits from the Society of Wine Educators and passed the Certified
Sommelier exam from the Court of Master Sommeliers. In her free time, Hannah also volunteers with the
Junior League of Kansas City and hangs out with her adorable Yorkie Chihuahua rescue, Livvy!

About Bodegas LAN – Rioja in Three Letters

With a connection to the land that is inherent to the origin of their winery, Bodegas LAN is named after
the first letters of the three provinces in the DOCa Rioja: Logroño, Álava and Navarra. Founded in 1972,
LAN’s innovative character is forged in each of the wines they make, based on conscientious vineyard
management and precision winemaking. Bodegas LAN seamlessly blends 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. With the remains of the
Mantible bridge as a witness throughout the centuries, the wholly owned Viña Lanciano has been – and
continues to be – the essence and origin of Bodegas LAN. From the very beginning in the 1970s, it has
been the winery’s bedrock and a symbol of its identity. 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.

If you are interested in wines for review, or if you want to connect with members of the Bodegas LAN
team, contact Stefanie Schwalb ([email protected]). Learn more about Bodegas LAN at
www.bodegaslan.com.







March 5th, 2020
Circulation 3.310.000

10 Pioneers Of Wine to Honor On International Women’s Day

By Sarah Tracey

For centuries, women have shaped the wine world and today, there are more women than ever
in leadership positions across the industry.

Looking to history, there’s Barbe-Nicole Clicquot, who in the early 1800s transformed Veuve
Clicquot into an internationally known brand. Or Hannah Weinberger, who took over her late
husband’s St. Helena winery in the 1880s, and (as of 1889) was one of 17 other women listed
as cellar masters and vineyardists across California. These days, there are even more
trailblazing women to be inspired by. In honor of International Women’s Day, here are 10
inspiring women who are shattering glass ceilings with every bottle. Cheers to these women and
their incredible contributions to the wine world.

María Barúa
Winemaker and Technical Director, Bodegas LAN

After studying Chemistry and Enology, María Barúa started working at Rioja’s Bodegas LAN as
Winemaker in 2002 and added Technical Director to her title in 2007. Her work balances a deep
respect of nature, along with the advantages of modern technology. The Bodega’s commitment
to sustainability has led her to employ primarily manual practices to reduce soil erosion and
improve its fertility, reduce environmental pollution, limit the use of water, and respect the
balance of flora and fauna in the vineyard — a goal that means zero use of chemical herbicides.
And as for technology? Says Barúa, “In addition to our weather station, we use aerial imagery
and have humidity control points in the vineyard. Over the past five years, we have installed 15
detailed monitoring points, to keep checks on the vineyard and create a historical record of our
estate parcel-by-parcel.”

March 12, 2020
Circulation 2,080

Patatas Bravas with Rioja Crianza

No tapas party would be complete without a few Tempranillo-based red wines from Rioja. I
chose younger Crianza wines for this pairing since they spend less time in oak barrels than their
siblings, the Reservas and Gran Reservas. Crianzas tend to be lighter, more fruit-forward and
are a great match to the many flavors of tapas. Look for crianzas from the following producers:
Baigorri, Beronia, CVNE, El Coto, El Ternero, LAN, Marques de Caceres, R. Lopez de Heredia
‘Viña Cubillo,’ Viña Pomal, Viña Real, Vivanco.

The aioli can be prepared ahead and refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before serving.
The potatoes should be prepared right before the guests arrive.

Aioli Ingredients

1 clove garlic, minced

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

1 pinch salt

1 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon sherry vinegar or more to taste

1 teaspoon tomato paste

¼ teaspoon ground chipotle peppers

1 pinch cayenne pepper

Patatas Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds fingerling potatoes

3 tablespoons olive oil

Sea salt and pepper

Spanish paprika

1 tablespoon chopped parsley leaves

Make the Garlic Aioli

1) Combine garlic, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt in a mortar and pestle or
food processor; process until smooth.

2) Mix in mayonnaise, sherry vinegar, tomato paste, 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chile powder, and
cayenne pepper until combined.

Make the Patatas Bravas

1) Boil the fingerling potatoes in salted water until they are just tender, about 10 minutes. Drain
and let dry.

2) Carefully slice the potatoes in half lengthwise once they are cooled. Heat a cast iron pan to
very hot with 3 tablespoons olive oil. Work in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and fry up the
potatoes until each side is crispy and evenly browned, about 2 minutes per side.

3) Using tongs, transfer the potatoes to drain on paper towels, and while they are still very hot,
sprinkle with sea salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Serve with the aioli drizzled on top of the
potatoes or on the side in a ramekin.





March 27, 2020
Circulation: 535,200

How to deal with quarantine? Wine about it — Tips for savoring wines
amid COVID-19

Gina Birch

I knew I was in trouble when I was down to one roll of toilet paper. After multiple weeks of seasonal guests,
I wasn’t looking to stockpile due to coronavirus, I just needed a basic replenishment, and there was not a
roll to be found on any retail shelf.

What I did have was wine, and lots of it.

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to the coronavirus free to read. To support important local journalism like this, please consider becoming a
digital subscriber.

It started as a joke, a frustrated social media post: Willing to barter wine for wipes.

Then came the first of numerous texts.

“I was in line at Publix at 7am this morning, I picked up a package for you and me,” read the first one that
caught my eye.

By 7:15 that same shelf was cleared out.

Shelves have been cleared of toilet paper and hand sanitizer as people stockpile due to COVID-19.
Shelves have been cleared of toilet paper and hand sanitizer as people stockpile due to COVID-19. (Photo:
NewsBase, Associated Press)

Twenty-four hours later, holding true to my word, I handed over a bottle of sparkling wine for a 12-pack of
Charmin Ultra Comfort Care, and I indeed felt comforted — at least a little.

While on the hunt for bathroom supplies, I couldn’t help but observe how other quarantine-prep shoppers
were filling their carts. While the shelves remained stocked with beer and wine, the carts I saw were full of
it.

At Total Wine in south Fort Myers, the queue stretched almost to the back of the store. People were buying
cases, not bottles, of their favorite wines.

Like dining, wine is designed to bring people together, very little of which is happening at the moment due
to coronavirus restrictions.

Wine aficionados will tell you its consumption is not about getting drunk and self-medicating, although that
does happen. It’s about the experience. It’s enjoying how wine changes with and complements food, the
history of the vines and winemakers, the stories of how it was made and how you acquired it.

As my inbox filled this week with cancellations of events and restaurants switching to takeout only, it also
filled with wineries closing tasting rooms and altering their business practices. Like many professions,
vintners are getting creative, offering free shipping and virtual tastings.

Shoppers line up before the opening of a Total Wine in Delaware
Shoppers line up before the opening of a Total Wine in Delaware (Photo: Jennifer Corbett, Delaware News
Journal)

Virtual wining and dining is a great way to stay connected with family and friends while “sheltering in place,”
with platforms such as Zoom, GoToMeetings, FaceTime and Google Hangouts to name a few.

I recently used FaceTime to engage with friends in the Golden State in our first of hopefully many virtual
wine tastings. They sent me a few bottles from Chronic Cellars in Paso Robles and we popped corks
together.

This is the time of year when many wineries are releasing new vintages.

Considering orders from health and governmental officials to stay home, Sofa King Bueno ($22) seemed
an ideal wine for our digital tasting. The 2018 vintage is 58% syrah, 27% petite sirah, followed by Grenache,
tannat and mourvedre. It’s juicy, savory and good with ribs or burgers.

I’ve always loved the creative names, colorful labels and variety of blends coming out of Chronic Cellars.
They are a great mood lifter these days.

We also tried the 2018 Naissance Napa Valley sauvignon blanc ($30) from Galerie Wine; a perfect wine to
enjoy on a group video chat from your lanai.

This low-production wine is aged using three methods: stainless steel tank, concrete egg and neutral oak
barrels. It is aromatic, tropical and fresh, with nicely balanced grapefruit on the finish.

Next week I’m planning a virtual tasting with friends from Bodegas LAN in La Rioja, Spain. Wine is still
bringing us together, even if not in person.

While I’m a fierce advocate for making purchases from your local wine store, now is the perfect time to
place orders for direct shipment from your favorite wineries or try something new and explore wines not
commonly found on retail shelves in Southwest Florida.

And if you run low on bubbles, I’m in for another round of bartering.

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