Blog: Lagrein | Grape variety

The elegance of the Lagrein: A look at the South Tyrolean grape variety
South Tyrol, a picturesque region in the northern part of Italy, is not only known for its breathtaking scenery, but also for its rich wine tradition. Among the many grape varieties that thrive in this region, Lagrein stands out in particular. With its deep color, complex aroma and unique character, Lagrein has earned a firm place in the world of wine.

Origin and history
The history of Lagrein goes back centuries and is closely linked to the region of South Tyrol. It is believed that the grape variety originated near the city of Bolzano, where it has been cultivated since at least the 16th century. The exact origin of the name 'Lagrein' has not yet been fully clarified, but many suspect a connection to the Latin word 'acrinum', which could refer to the wild berries from which the wine is made.

Characteristics of Lagrein
Lagrein is known for its deep dark color, often reminiscent of blackberries. This intensity is also reflected in the taste, which is characterized by ripe dark fruits such as black cherries and berries. The tannins are strong, yet velvety, and give the wine a pleasant structure. Some Lagrein wines can also have subtle notes of spice, chocolate and even smoke, which adds to their complexity.

Cultivation and terroir
The Lagrein grape thrives particularly well on the steep slopes of South Tyrol, where the climate is characterized by cool nights and warm days. The calcareous soils offer optimal conditions for the growth and development of the vines. The altitude of the vineyards helps the grapes to ripen slowly and fully develop their aromas, resulting in wines of great finesse and elegance.

Vinification and style
The vinification of Lagrein requires careful handling in order to develop the full potential of the grapes. Traditionally, Lagrein has often been vinified as a single varietal wine, emphasizing the distinctive characteristics of this grape variety. Nowadays, however, many winemakers are experimenting with different vinification methods to broaden the spectrum of Lagrein wines. Some are opting for barrique ageing to achieve additional aromas and a smooth texture, while others are opting for a more traditional approach that emphasizes the freshness and fruitiness of the wine.

Enjoyment and pairing
Lagrein wines are an excellent accompaniment to a wide variety of dishes. Thanks to their powerful structure and full flavor, they go particularly well with hearty dishes such as game, grilled meats and mature cheeses. The freshness and fruitiness of some Lagrein wines also make them an ideal partner for Mediterranean cuisine and pasta dishes.

Future prospects
The future of Lagrein looks promising as interest in indigenous grape varieties and regional wines increases worldwide. With its unique profile and ability to reflect terroir and tradition, Lagrein will continue to delight wine lovers and connoisseurs alike.

In a world characterized by standardization and mass production, Lagrein remains a living example of the diversity and richness of the wine world. Its elegance and expressiveness make it a true jewel among South Tyrol's grape varieties and an ambassador for the unique characteristics of this fascinating region. - Gerardo [TS02/24]

"The second autochthonous variety of South Tyrol is Lagrein. It is probably much older than the Vernatsch. For a long time this grape variety led a shadowy existence, because he was hardly in demand during the time of light wine consumption. The largest part of the grapes was marketed until well into the 80-ies as Kretzer, as the South Tyroleans call their Roséwines.

The small part, which was fermented quite normally on the mash, served mainly as blend wine for the Vernatsch or for other light-colored wines. If a winery dared to put such a wine on the bottle, it wrote - as a warning - 'Dark' on it. This custom has survived until today. The 'Bauernkretzer', which is drawn off the mash after three days, practically no longer exists today.

The main growing area is in Gries, a former climatic health resort for lung patients that was incorporated into Bolzano in 1925. On sandy, heavily gravelly, well-drained and at the same time very warm soils, the variety finds excellent growing conditions. Grieser is considered the softest of all wines. But it would be a mistake to believe that only in Gries the variety yields top quality. The wine from Maretsch, which belongs to Bolzano village, is at least as good. And the first vintages from the new vineyards in the neighboring communities of Moritzing, Talfertal and Rentsch prove that the wine there has a similar depth and complexity as in Gries. Larger vineyards can still be found at Auer, Neumarkt and Kurtatsch. But they do not reach the softness and ripeness of the wines from Gries." - Dr. Jens Priewe