A few years ago I went on an amazing hiking trip through the Dolomites. We began in Bolzano which turns out to be the home of Lagrein wine. Most people think of white wines in the Trentino-Alto Adige region, but a small percentage about 1200 acres produces a very special red wine.
Lagrein is an ancient grape that grows extremely well on the sun baked slopes of the region. The grape is most likely native to this part of Italy and is thought to have gotten its name from the town of Val Lagarina in Trentino. DNA testing suggests it may be a descendant of Teroldego and related to Syrah and Pinot Noir.
The wine has very high tannins and acidity so it is best enjoyed with food. You will find aromas of black fruits, violets, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, smoke and earth. On the palate there are flavors of fresh cherry, blackberry, and plum as well as dark chocolate, licorice, leather and coffee.
The wines are fruity in youth and gain more complexity with age. Its grapes are dark and thick skinned resulting in wines that are inky black in color.
Lagrein has been a challenging wine to produce over the years as it has a tendency toward low, irregular yields and harsh tannic finish. Modern viticulture and new winemaking techniques have limited the effects of these two problems.
When aged in small oak casks Lagrein unloads its elegant full bodied presence. These wines can be enjoyed after a few years in the bottle and can age well in the cellar for ten years.
Lagrein pairs well with game, beef, lamb, roast pork, speck, aged cheeses, lasagna and truffle risotto.
Why not try a few and let us know your thoughts.
Tramin Lagrein
Terlano Greis Riserva Lagrein
Elena Walch Lagrein
Manicure Lagrein Rubatsch
J Hofstatter Steinraffler Lagrein
Salute
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