Rubeno Lagrein DOC

Lagrein is South Tyrol's most idiosyncratic red wine grape variety – dark, spicy, with a tannin structure that needs time to open up. The Rubeno from Cantina Andrian shows how accessible this variety can be when given the right framework.

Cantina Andrian is one of the oldest cooperative wineries in South Tyrol, founded in 1893 in the village of the same name near Bolzano. The winery works with around 200 winegrowers whose vines are rooted in the volcanic porphyry and gravel soil of the Adige Valley – a terroir that gives Lagrein its characteristic depth.

In the glass, the Rubeno glows in deep ruby red with violet reflections. On the nose, dark berry fruits dominate – blackberry and plum – accompanied by a distinct vanilla tone from the six months of aging in large wooden barrels. On the palate, it is smoother than many Lagreins: the tannins are velvety and well-integrated, the structure stable without edges, the finish medium-length with a light spicy note.

Serving temperature: 16–18 °C. Pairs well with wild boar goulash, South Tyrolean gray cheese, or a hearty pasta al ragù.