International Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon   Merlot   Pinot Noir   Syrah

Major Varieties: Cabernet Franc    Grenache    Malbec    Nebbiolo    Sangiovese    Tempranillo    Zinfandel

Regional Varieties:   Baga    Barbera    Blaufränkisch    Brachetto    Carignan    Carménère    Cinsaut    Dolcetto    Gamay    Graciano    Lagrein    Malvasia Nera    Marzemino    Montepulciano    Mourvèdre    Nero d'Avola    Petit Verdot    Petite Sirah    Pinot Meunier    Pinotage    Touriga Nacional

Lagrein is a red grape native to Italy, grown in the area of Alto Adige near the border with Austria. It is related to Syrah and Pinot Noir, but lacks the popularity of those relatives due to its highly tannic nature. Production of good varietal Lagrein is expensive, as to soften the wine's astringency and bitterness, it must often be aged in oak for years. As a result, most producers have chosen to blend it. The grape is rarely found outside of Alto Adige, as the climate is just about ideal there, but there have been attempts in other parts of Italy and Australia.