Lagrein is one of Italy’s more fruit-intense red varieties. It’s also made a home in Australia, but few plantings are in Italy outside its home region of Alto Adige and even fewer around the world. This variety often produces wines that are strong and full-bodied with plum and cherry flavours, and deep, dense colour. This Lagrein Wine Guide covers everything you need to know about this Italian grape varietal.
Lagrein wine guide
Lagrein may not be a household name like Cabernet or Pinot Noir, but this bold Italian red is a hidden gem worth discovering. Native to the breathtaking Alto Adige region where the Italian Alps meet the Mediterranean, Lagrein is a powerhouse of rich fruit flavours, robust structure, and deep, velvety colour that makes up less than 9% of the total wine production for the region. This grape variety is the cousin of Syrah and a grandchild of Pinot Noir. Despite its rarity outside of northern Italy, this grape is gaining fans worldwide—and for good reason!
You’ll find Lagrein made in a few different styles. It can be used to produce a full-flavoured Rosato, blended with other varietals or anything from light, fruity reds to hearty red wines.
Origins
Lagrein’s roots run deep—all the way back to the 13th century! The first mention of this grape variety dates to medieval times, and it even earned the praise of Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in 1370. The name “Lagrein” is believed to derive from “Lagara,” an ancient Greek colony known for its wine production. Interestingly, for centuries, the name was linked to a white grape called Lagrein Bianco before the red Lagrein Rosso took center stage.
By the 1970s, Lagrein was on the verge of extinction, but a surge in appreciation for its unique qualities brought it back to life. Today, it thrives in Alto Adige and a few adventurous wine regions across the globe.
Lagrein wine flavours: Bold, dark and delicious
If you love your reds bold and bursting with dark fruit, Lagrein is calling your name. Think juicy blackberries, ripe blood plums, and purple cherries. These lush fruit notes are wrapped in layers of rich cocoa, smoky spices, and hints of violet.
Thanks to its aging potential, Lagrein wines develop even more complexity over time. Oak barrels add a touch of vanilla and smooth out the grape’s naturally assertive tannins. Fans of Cabernet Sauvignon will appreciate Lagrein’s structure and depth but with a uniquely Alpine twist.
Where to find Lagrein
Lagrein reigns supreme in Alto Adige, where it thrives on the steep valley slopes of South Tyrol. Although it’s not the most widely planted grape in the region (that title belongs to Schiava), it produces some of the most exciting and age-worthy reds.
Beyond Italy, Lagrein has found a second home in Australia, particularly in regions like the Macedon Ranges, McLaren Vale, and Barossa Valley. You might also stumble across a bottle from select vineyards in California and Oregon, offering a slightly spicier and more medium-bodied interpretation of this Alpine classic.
What to look for in Lagrein wines
When shopping for Lagrein from Italy, keep an eye out for a few key terms that hint at quality and style:
- “Riserva” indicates a more robust, age-worthy wine with extended barrel aging.
- “Vigna” means the grapes come from a single vineyard, often highlighting the best terroir.
- Blends: Lagrein is sometimes blended with Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, adding extra layers of richness and complexity.
For the purest expression, look to wines from south of Bolzano, where lower altitudes and porphyry-rich soils create the ideal conditions.
Pairing Lagrein with food
Lagrein is a food lover’s dream. Its bold tannins and bright acidity cut through rich, hearty dishes like a charm. Classic pairings include:
- Hearty stews and braises: Think boeuf bourguignon, venison with berry sauce, or Tyrolean goulash with dumplings.
- Aged cheeses: Try Piave Vecchio, Montasio, Gruyère, or Comté for a decadent match.
- Mushroom-based dishes: The earthy flavors of mushrooms complement Lagrein’s depth beautifully.
- Grilled or roasted meats: Whether it’s a juicy steak or a rack of lamb, Lagrein’s robust character holds up to bold proteins.
For a true taste of the Alps, pair a glass of Lagrein with local specialties like Südtiroler gulasch and crumbly mountain cheeses.
In summary: Lagrein wine guide
Lagrein might be a lesser-known grape, but it delivers big on flavor, history, and versatility. From its ancient origins in Alto Adige to its modern-day revival across the globe, this bold red wine offers a delicious adventure for those willing to explore beyond the usual suspects. Whether you’re a fan of dark, brooding reds or looking for the perfect bottle to pair with your next hearty meal, Lagrein deserves a spot on your wine rack. Cheers to discovering something new!