What kind of wine is Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva 'Gries' 2021 - Colterenzio?

The Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva 'Gries' 2021 - Colterenzio is a red wine of great character, an authentic expression of the indigenous Lagrein grape variety, one of the most typical and fascinating varieties of South Tyrol. It originates in Gries, a locality historically recognized as the cradle of this grape, where sandy alluvial soils and a warm microclimate favor a complete maturation of the grapes. The result is a full-bodied, balanced, and elegant wine, which harmoniously combines strength and softness.

Vintage details

The 2021 vintage in South Tyrol was characterized by a regular climatic trend, with a dry and sunny summer and cool nights that favored a perfect day-night temperature range. These conditions allowed the Lagrein to develop great aromatic concentration and a mature yet fine tannic structure, resulting in a Riserva of remarkable balance and depth.

Winemaking and aging

The Lagrein grapes are hand-picked from the vineyards of Gries, with deliberately low yields per hectare to ensure greater concentration and quality. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature, with maceration on the skins to extract color and tannins. This is followed by an aging period of about 16 months, divided between large oak barrels and second-passage barriques. This time in wood gives the wine structure and complexity, without masking the varietal freshness of the Lagrein.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a deep ruby red color with violet reflections, typical of Lagrein. The chromatic density indicates the richness of extract and the concentration of the wine.

Nose

The bouquet is broad and enveloping. Aromas of ripe wild berries, plum, and blackberry emerge, followed by delicate spicy and slightly toasted notes due to aging in wood. An undertone of vanilla and cocoa completes a refined and persistent olfactory profile.

Taste

On the palate, the Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva 'Gries' 2021 - Colterenzio reveals a full and harmonious structure. The tannins are well present but velvety, the sip is soft and warm, supported by a pleasant freshness that balances the richness of the body. The finish is long and persistent, with fruity and spicy returns that invite another taste.

What dishes to pair with Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva 'Gries' 2021 - Colterenzio

This Lagrein Riserva is the ideal companion for rich and structured dishes. Its intensity and balance make it perfect with:

• grilled or roasted red meats;
• braised dishes and stews of beef or game;
• aged cheeses and typical South Tyrolean dishes such as dumplings and goulash.

The wine enhances every bite thanks to its fullness and pleasant aromatic complexity.

Storage and aging: how to store Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva 'Gries' 2021 - Colterenzio wine

To best appreciate the characteristics of this wine, it is recommended to store it horizontally in a dark place, away from vibrations and at a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C. The Alto Adige Lagrein Riserva 'Gries' 2021 - Colterenzio is a wine with a remarkable evolutionary capacity: it can further refine in the bottle for 8–10 years, developing more complex tones of tobacco, licorice, and chocolate over time. Open it a few minutes before serving, at a temperature of about 18°C, to allow the bouquet to fully express itself.