Lagrein grape
Lagrein is a red grape known for plum, blackberry, violet. Its best-known homes are Alto Adige.
Origin and history
An old variety of Alto Adige, recorded around Bolzano since at least the 1500s; DNA shows it is a child of Teroldego.
Where it grows
Alto Adige (Südtirol), especially the Gries district of Bolzano, and Trentino; small plantings in Australia and California.
Structure
Medium to full body, deep, inky colour, fresh acidity and firm but fine tannins.
Aromas, young and aged
Young: plum, blackberry, black cherry, violet and dark chocolate. With age: dried fruit, earth, leather and a slightly bitter finish.
Ageing
Most best within 3–8 years; top Riserva examples keep 10–15.
Also known as
Lagrein Dunkel (red), Lagrein Kretzer (rosé).
Good to know
It is also made as Lagrein Kretzer, a traditional rosé, and is closely related to Teroldego and Marzemino.
Wine regions for Lagrein
Similar red grapes
Explore all grapes in the interactive guide
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