What kind of wine is Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva DOC 'Praepositus' 2021 - Abbazia di Novacella?

The Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva DOC 'Praepositus' 2021 - Abbazia di Novacella is a red wine of great character, an authentic expression of one of Alto Adige's most important indigenous grape varieties: Lagrein. This wine originates from the vineyards owned by the Augustinian monks of the Abbazia di Novacella, in the heart of the Isarco Valley, and is considered one of the finest examples of the "Praepositus" line, dedicated to the winery's most prestigious labels.

Lagrein is a wine with a full-bodied and enveloping structure, yet elegant and harmonious. The "Riserva" version is produced only in the best vintages, when the grapes reach optimal ripeness and allow for a complex, richly nuanced red wine capable of evolving over time.

Vintage Details

The 2021 vintage was particularly balanced in terms of temperatures and temperature fluctuations, offering ideal conditions for the slow and complete ripening of the Lagrein grapes. The harvest was carried out by hand in the first days of October, with a careful selection of the best bunches, a determining factor for the quality of this Riserva.

Vinification and aging

The vinification of the Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva DOC 'Praepositus' 2021 - Abbazia di Novacella follows a careful process that respects tradition. After maceration (i.e., the contact of the must with the skins to extract color and aromas) and fermentation in stainless steel at a controlled temperature, the wine matures for a long period in oak barrels. Aging in wood allows the tannins to soften and develop aromatic complexity before further rest in the bottle, which completes its harmonization.

Tasting Notes

A wine that captivates with its balance and depth, capable of conveying the Alto Adige territory in every sip.

Color

In the glass, it presents an intense deep ruby red color with violet hues, typical of the Lagrein grape. Its visual density anticipates the full-bodied structure that distinguishes this Riserva.

Nose

The nose reveals elegant and complex aromas: small ripe forest fruits, black cherry, notes of cocoa, and delicate spicy nuances of vanilla and black pepper. The bouquet is rich but balanced, a sign of well-integrated long aging in wood.

Palate

On the palate, it offers great fullness and structure. The soft and velvety tannins blend with a pleasant freshness that supports the sip and provides balance. The finish is long, with lingering notes of ripe fruit and sweet spices that invite another taste.

Pairing suggestions for Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva DOC 'Praepositus' 2021 - Abbazia di Novacella

This wine expresses its best when paired with intense and flavorful dishes. It is ideal for convivial dinners and structured main courses, thanks to its depth and aromatic complexity.

• Grilled or roasted red meats
• Braised dishes, stews, and game
• Aged and flavorful cheeses, such as Pecorino or Parmesan
• Typical Alto Adige cuisine, based on speck or canederli (dumplings)

Served slightly decanted, it offers the best of its aromatic and tannic qualities.

Storage and aging: how to store Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva DOC 'Praepositus' 2021 - Abbazia di Novacella wine

To preserve its characteristics over time, it is important to store this wine in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature around 12-14°C. The bottle should be stored horizontally so that the cork remains moist and prevents air from entering.

The Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva DOC 'Praepositus' 2021 - Abbazia di Novacella has considerable aging potential: it can evolve positively for 10-12 years, enriching itself with elegant tertiary notes such as licorice, tobacco, and sweet spices. A wine therefore perfect not only for immediate consumption but also for those who wish to enrich their cellar with a bottle of great value and personality.