Lagrein 2020

A gorgeous warm growing season welcomed this late ripening native from the valleys of South Tyrol, northern Italy. DNA profiling has established that Lagrein is a progeny of Teroldego, a grandchild of Pinot, and a cousin of Syrah. It’s not an easy grape variety and offers a challenge in vineyard and winery but produces wines of real character rich in tannins. We handpicked a very low yield of about 700 g/vine for a complex and full bodied Lagrein in the first second week of April.

'A few days of cold maceration prior to a long cool wild fermentation for 21 days. Directly pressed into one French 500 litre puncheon for malolactic fermentation. This imposing Italian has been aged on its fine lees for 20 months. No fining (vegan) and no filtration to maintain its beautiful aromas and flavours. A wine I have been introduced to as a young winemaker, when buying in the bulk wine from some of the finest example from Alto Adige.'

A dark and seductive Lagrein with stunning notes of juicy ripe black cherries, dark berry fruit and subtle damson-plum. Enormously concentrated and complex. Velvety tannins are balanced by a bright and uplifting acidity. The alluring but powerful wine hides any hint of its substantial time in wood. There is this intriguing salinity and hint of spices lingering at the plush finish, which lasts forever. Tasted Dec. 2022

Being of Italian origin, Lagrein pairs well with hearty Italian dishes such as carbonara, Osso Bucco, or perhaps with a steak...

The Real Review - 94 points (2018)

'This northern Italian grape variety is, according to Wine Grapes a grandchild of pinot and cousin of syrah. An intense, smooth-textured red, with an intriguing mix of plum, violet, raspberry and savoury fresh herb and baked-earth flavours. An elegant rather than blockbuster wine with pleasing finesse.' Bob Campbell