Girlan IGT Vigneti delle Dolomiti 448 Rosso 2023

From a vintage built on supple, vibrant fruit and juicy tannins, the 448 Rosso is drawn from grapes grown at around 448 metres above sea level in the Alto Adige. It's crafted from a blend of two indigenous Südtirol varieties—Lagrein and Schiava—along with Pinot Nero, with which the terroirs of Alto Adige have a proven affinity. The Lagrein comes from the deep, sandy soils of the Bassa Atesina (a warmer terroir, ideal for ripening this variety). The Pinot Nero and Schiava are grown on the hillside vineyards of Cornaiano in sunny, well-aerated vineyards. Raised in a mix of tank, barrels and concrete, the 2023 is a moreishly fleshy and fruity Alpine red drenched in berries, black cherry and red plums, a lick of herb and spice, all neatly folded within the fine, juicy texture. The finish has a lovely sweet-sour snap and sufficient tanginess to wash down woodfired pizza with aplomb.