I recently opened a bottle of COR 2004 by Alois Lageder from the cellar of Villa Licata — an intriguing and now rare cuvée from Alto Adige. This vintage is a blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot, sourced from biodynamically cultivated vineyards around Magrè. 2004 was a classically balanced vintage in South Tyrol, and that elegance is beautifully reflected in the wine’s refined character.
In the glass, COR 2004 reveals a deep garnet hue with slightly matured edges. The bouquet is complex and elegant, offering notes of blackcurrant, dark berries, and dried plums, supported by graphite, bay leaf, cedarwood, and a hint of green pepper.
On the palate, the wine is energetic and linear, with firm yet silky tannins, fresh acidity, and a long, spicy finish. The influence of Petit Verdot is subtle yet noticeable in the structure and dark spiciness of the wine.
COR 2004 pairs beautifully with dishes such as roast lamb with rosemary, herb-infused game stew, or a classic canederli with butter and sage. It also makes an excellent match for aged cheeses like a matured Graukäse or Pecorino.
The wine is drinking perfectly now, but if properly cellared, it can continue to develop in finesse and depth until 2030. Decanting is recommended to fully unlock its aromatic complexity.
Click here to discover COR 2019.
Status: Ready to drink, with ageing potential until at least 2030.
A presto, Salute!
In the glass, COR 2004 reveals a deep garnet hue with slightly matured edges. The bouquet is complex and elegant, offering notes of blackcurrant, dark berries, and dried plums, supported by graphite, bay leaf, cedarwood, and a hint of green pepper.
On the palate, the wine is energetic and linear, with firm yet silky tannins, fresh acidity, and a long, spicy finish. The influence of Petit Verdot is subtle yet noticeable in the structure and dark spiciness of the wine.
COR 2004 pairs beautifully with dishes such as roast lamb with rosemary, herb-infused game stew, or a classic canederli with butter and sage. It also makes an excellent match for aged cheeses like a matured Graukäse or Pecorino.
The wine is drinking perfectly now, but if properly cellared, it can continue to develop in finesse and depth until 2030. Decanting is recommended to fully unlock its aromatic complexity.
Click here to discover COR 2019.
Status: Ready to drink, with ageing potential until at least 2030.
A presto, Salute!