Laurin Lagrein Merlot Alto Adige DOC 2023 - Girlan x 6

The Varietal Synergy and Identity of the LAURIN Cuvée Girlan

The LAURIN Lagrein Merlot DOC represents an elegant and modern interpretation of red grape varieties crafted by Cantina Girlan through an equal blend of two complementary grapes. This selection builds on the combination of two distinct terroirs: 50% Lagrein and 50% Merlot are grown partly on the ventilated hillsides of Oltradige at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level, and partly in the warm, sandy, and deep soils of Bassa Atesina, between 280 and 350 meters of elevation. This complex environmental matrix constitutes the agronomic foundation for a full-bodied red wine rich in regional character.

Cellar Protocol: Gravity-Fed Vinification, Combined Aging, and Blending

The technical management of the 2023 vintage applies rigorous criteria aimed at preserving the integrity of the original fruit. The harvest is carried out entirely by hand in small bins to protect the clusters during transport. After destemming, the must is transferred exclusively by gravity into stainless steel tanks, where the red skin-contact vinification cycle takes place for 12 to 15 days. Following the completion of malolactic fermentation, the wine undergoes an 18-month aging path in barriques and large oak casks. The final blending is performed shortly before bottling, followed by an additional 3 months of rest and stabilization in glass before its commercial release.

Sensory Profile of LAURIN Trentino Alto Adige red wine

The balanced dialogue between the native depth of Lagrein and the roundness of Merlot is enriched by a targeted use of oak, outlining an exceptionally clean organoleptic framework.

• Blend and Classification: 50% Lagrein, 50% Merlot / Alto Adige DOC.
• Analytical Data (2023 Vintage): Alcohol Content: 14.00% Vol. / Aging: 18 months in oak and 3 months in the bottle.
• Visual Assessment: Deep and intense ruby red color, characterized by high viscosity and youthful violet highlights upon swirling in the glass.
• Olfactory Framework: Intense, enveloping, and complex bouquet. The nose reveals consistent notes of ripe red fruit and blackberries, integrated by spicy nuances and a delicate toasted touch derived from fine oak.
• Palate Characteristics: The tasting reveals a pleasant, full-bodied, and rich mouthfeel. The mid-palate development shows a smooth, velvety harmony where the freshness of Lagrein melts into polished tannins, guiding the pour toward a long and persistent finish.

Service Guidelines and Gastronomic Pairings

The body volume and polyphenolic smoothness of this South Tyrolean cuvée make it ideal for pairing with rich, savory dishes of land-based cuisine.

• Stable Pairings: It pairs outstandingly with grilled preparations, ribeye steaks, prominent feathered and furred game dishes, traditional stews, and selections of pungent or medium-aged cheeses.
• Serving Method: To promote the development of the aromatic bouquet and ensure tannin integration, a serving temperature of 16 - 18°C is recommended.

Evolutionary Potential and Storage

The LAURIN displays great drinkability from its debut, yet possesses a polyphenolic depth that allows it to develop positively in the bottle for six to eight years. Horizontal bottle storage is recommended in a dark environment at a constant temperature.