Rioja: Rioja is one of the most famous wine regions in Spain, located in the northern part of the country. The region is known for its high-quality red wines, primarily made from the Tempranillo grape, often blended with Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano. Gran Reserva: Gran Reserva is a classification in the Rioja aging system that designates wines with extended aging periods. For red Gran Reserva wines, this aging period includes at least two years in oak barrels and three years in the bottle before release. Bodegas LAN: Bodegas LAN is a well-established winery in Rioja, founded in 1972 in the town of Fuenmayor. The winery is known for its commitment to quality winemaking and the use of modern technology while respecting traditional winemaking practices. 2016 Vintage: The 2016 vintage in Rioja was generally considered very good, marked by favorable weather conditions during the growing season. Wines from this vintage are expected to have good structure, balanced acidity, and aging potential. Tempranillo Grape: Tempranillo is the dominant grape variety in Rioja and contributes to wines with flavors of red berries, plum, vanilla, and often a characteristic earthiness. Oak Aging: Rioja wines, including Gran Reservas, often undergo extended aging in oak barrels. This process imparts flavors of vanilla, spice, and subtle oak nuances to the wine. Terroir Influence: Rioja's diverse terroir, with a combination of soils and microclimates, can influence the character of the wines. Bodegas LAN may source grapes from different sub-regions within Rioja to create a wine that reflects the region's complexity. Food Pairing: Rioja Gran Reserva wines, with their maturity and complexity, pair well with a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, lamb, aged cheeses, and traditional Spanish cuisine.