Includes 3 bottles of 2020 Nusserhof Lagrein Riserva.

The incredible, life-changing Lagrein from Heinrich Mayr/Nusserhof. Honestly one of the most striking and aromatic and authentic wines in the world. Italian Cote Rotie. Top possible recommendation.

At a glance:

• Built in 1788 in the center of a walnut grove, post WWII expansion has now surrounded this oasis of ancient vineyards on all sides with office buildings and warehouses.

• The Mayr family works organically with grapes native to the area that perform well in its particular climate.  They continue to work with natives that are no longer permitted by bureaucrats. 

The modern world threatens to swallow Nusserhof completely.  Developers, city officials, neighbors - they all want to bulldoze this garden-sized vineyard and pave it over.  Yet the Mayr family remains there, cultivating grapes and making wine - due in no small part to the vintner’s uncle, Josef Mayr-Nusser.  This part of Italy was once Austrian.  In 1939, when the Nazis demanded resettlement, Josef led the local resistance for years until he was eventually captured, passing away en route to Dachau in 1945.

In recognition of his resolution, the Mayr family retains the right to continue their lives as winegrowers.  And, in recognition of those who chose to stay, the Mayrs continue the tradition of growing local varieties like Vernatsch, Lagrein and Blatterle.  We love the soaring aromatics and Pinot-Noir like fruit of Vernatsch, the brooding, dark-souled Lagrein and the zesty (and censored) Bl….t..e.  Healthy vineyards, careful, natural winemaking and extremely firm backbones. In every bottle you can taste the history, the family and the place where it comes from.  Who could ask for more?