2010 Heartland Wines Dolcetto & Lagrein

Another innovative blend of two northern Italian varieties from South Australia's Langhorne Creek. This marriage of 50% Dolcetto and 50% Lagrein - a variety indigenous to Trentino Alto Aldige - is the brainchild of owner and winemaker Ben Glaetzer at Heartland Wines.

Has there been a blend like this before ? A handful of winemakers here are blending Dolcetto and Shiraz/Syrah but this is unique, funky and nerdy ! The Lagrein is aged in new French oak for nine months while the Dolcetto is un-oaked to preserve freshness.


Dark purple glass staining colour. Savoury bouquet of cherry, black pepper and almonds. A dry, flinty, earthy red aromatically ringed by the dark plum and blackberry flavours of the Dolcetto. 

In the mouth, dark fruit flavours on entry. Licorice, dark chocolate and blackberry palate with meaty savouriness. Texturally smooth. Astringent sour cherry notes and earthy tannins across the palate. Bright acidity throughout, especially towards the tail. Oak is present but doesn't monster the wine's balance. 
Again, old world varieties with a new world twist. My note ends  'a marriage made in heaven'. 

Vibrant, complex and alluring wine that wants to be drunk with hearty food. 

Source: Retail Purchase. ABV: 14.0%. Closure: Screwcap. Price: $21.50. Rating: 92 Points.

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