Culmen 2017

A deep and ambitiously structured Rioja with an array of fresh blue and black fruit, as well as classy oak spices and sandalwood. Full bodied and juicy, loaded with polished tannins, but the fruit core remains dry and elegant without superfluous sweetness. Ending long and spicy. A little tight and monolithic now, so give it a year or two to evolve and soften more. Heavy bottle! Drink from 2024.

Culmen is LAN's flagship red blend and is only made in certain vintages, the concentrated 2017 being the latest. Partnering Tempranillo and 9% Graciano, it's a serious, profoundly oaked red with aromas of chocolate and coffee bean, lots of acidity and concentration and bold, strapping dark berry, liquorice and damson flavours. 2025-35.

A lovely wine with ripe red fruits, some smoky and toasty elements, fresh acidity, chewy tannins and a long, chocolatey finish. Lovely drinking.