Frauenhügel Lagrein Riserva – 2022

2022 Frauenhügel Lagrein Riserva from Cantina Kurtatsch, aged in barriques

The 2022 Frauenhügel Lagrein Riserva from Cantina Kurtatsch is a single-vineyard wine. It is neither a young, easy-drinking wine nor a blend from multiple plots, but a Lagrein aged for twelve months in wood from a single southeast-facing slope above the village.

The 2022 Frauenhügel Lagrein Riserva from Cantina Kurtatsch represents the Riserva level of South Tyrolean Lagrein and takes its name from the hill where it is grown. On its southeast-facing slope, the grapes ripen between 300 and 350 meters, protected by the mountain yet exposed to a constant breeze. Twelve months in barriques and large oak barrels give it roasted aromas and balsamic tannins. With 14 percent alcohol, it stands noticeably above the regional wine of the same grape variety.

The southeast slope brings warmth to the grapes

The Frauenhügel faces southeast, catching the morning sun. The microclimate remains mild and warm throughout the summer, while the wind blowing up from the valley keeps the grapes dry and intact.

At night, the temperature drops significantly, and it is precisely this spread between day and night that keeps the aromas in the berries vivid. In this way, the grape matures slowly rather than simply racing to ripeness in the heat.

The loamy soil beneath provides an earthy spice that is not found in any other Lagrein from this winery. A vineyard site truly makes a much greater difference than any label can claim.

Twelve months between small and large barrels

Fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature in rotation tanks. These gently move the mash and extract color from the skins without harshly pressing the seeds.

Afterward, the wine is divided; one part goes into small barriques, the other into large oak barrels. After twelve months, both halves are reunited and bottled together.

The small barrel contributes toast and structure, while the large one keeps the fruit expressive. Together, they create a Lagrein that smells of cocoa bean and black cherry rather than fresh wood.

Elderberry, black cherry, and roasted cocoa bean

In the glass, it is nearly black, and the initial aroma is intense. Wild berries and elderberry lead, followed by black cherry and a hint of roasted cocoa.

On the palate, the tannins are balsamic rather than sharp; they carry the wine far without drying it out. Roasted aromas layer over the fruit, a lively acidity keeps everything in motion, and the earthy spice of the hillside lingers on the finish.

A Sunday roast and years in the cellar

On the table: a beef roast alongside a bowl of polenta. In the glass stands a wine that has waited long enough to truly have something to say about this meal. It stands just as confidently with game, a leg of lamb, or a long-aged mountain cheese. An hour of breathing opens it up noticeably, and anyone who lets the bottle rest further will still find pleasure in it eight years from now.

A leaner interpretation of the same grape variety is offered by the powerful Lagrein from the regional range, and further South Tyrolean vineyard sites can be found at Kellerei Tramin in South Tyrol. More from the village itself can be found in the Cantina Kurtatsch range. Great wines have learned patience.

Origin, values, and awards

• Origin: Wine from Italy
• Region: South Tyrol - Alto Adige DOC
• Grape Variety: Lagrein
• 14.0% vol. alcohol
• 5.2 g/l acidity
• 1.6 g/l residual sugar
• Awards 2022: 92 points Vinum