Palmina 2007 Lagrein

Italy via Santa Ynez Valley
Palmina
2007 Lagrein
California

Palmina was founded in 1995 by respected winemaker Steve Clifton. The winery is named in honor of Clifton's friend Paula, to whom he attributes much of his knowledge of food, wine and Italian heritage. Focusing on Italian varietals, Palmina produces a wide range of wines. Whites include Pinot Grigio, Arneis, Moscato and Tocai. The reds include Barbera, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto and Lagrein, a little-known, thick-skinned grape. Lagrein comes from Italy's Trentino-Alto Adige region, in a growing climate that combines desert air with sea breezes—not unlike the pocket of the Santa Ynez Valley in which Palmina produces this wine. The 2007 Lagrein delivers just what you would hope to get from a wine in its price range. It is nicely balanced with aromas and flavors of blackberry, tart cherry, brambles and licorice. On the finish, there's a hint of chocolate and pepper. What it lacks in complexity, it makes up for in subtlety and elegance. The sort of wine made to pair with winter foods, serve this Lagrein with rich lamb stew, cassoulet or pork with a tart cherry sauce.

Rating: 14/20
Price: $32

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For more information, visit palminawines.com