Lagrein is a red variety grown in the Alto Adige area of northern Italy where it may be produced as a single variety, with a characteristic hint of bitterness on the finish, with good tannins and colour, or blended with Pinot Nero/Pinot Noir or Schiava. Winemaking techniques have now made the wine more approachable when young, with rounded, less astringent notes and the emphasis on its attractive fragrant character. The variety was mentioned as early as the 17th century in the records of the Muri Benedictine monastery near Bolzano in the Alto Adige.