The country’s red wines have long been known for their elegance and finesse, but the recent surge in quality has brought them into the spotlight.
The Rise of Austria’s Reds
Austria’s red wines have long been a staple of the country’s wine industry, with many of its most famous whites, such as Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, often overshadowing the reds. However, in recent years, the country’s reds have been gaining recognition and accolades, with many vintages since 2015 being hailed as exceptional. Key factors contributing to the rise of Austria’s reds include: + Climate change: Warmer temperatures have led to increased ripeness and juiciness in many of Austria’s reds. + New winemaking techniques: Innovative approaches to winemaking have allowed for more precise control over the fermentation process, resulting in more complex and nuanced flavors.
Zweigelt is a versatile grape variety that can be used for a wide range of wine styles, from dry to sweet, and from still to sparkling.
Characteristics of Zweigelt
Acidity and Tannins
Zweigelt is known for its high acidity and moderate tannins, making it an ideal grape variety for producing wines with good aging potential. The acidity in Zweigelt wines helps to balance the fruit flavors and provides a refreshing finish. Examples of wines with high acidity and moderate tannins include:
- Grüner Veltliner (Austrian white wine)
- Zweigelt (Austrian red wine)
- Pinot Noir (French red wine)
- Dark-cherry, blackberries, smoke, spice, and deep purple color
- Rich, full-bodied flavor profile
- Aged for 6-12 months in oak barrels
- Burgenland
- Kärnten
- Niederösterreich
- Oberösterreich
- Steiermark
- Wien
- Harvesting: The grapes are harvested in late summer, typically in September. Fermentation: The grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas.
While Blaufränkisch is often described as a “dark” grape, its style can vary greatly depending on the region and winemaker.
The Complexity of Blaufränkisch
Blaufränkisch is a red wine grape variety that originates from Austria. It is known for its dark color and robust tannins, but its style can vary greatly depending on the region and winemaker. In the Kamptal region, Blaufränkisch is often described as a “light” and “fruity” wine, while in the Burgenland region, it is often described as a “full-bodied” and “spicy” wine. Key characteristics of Blaufränkisch: + Dark color + Robust tannins + Fruity and spicy flavors + Can vary greatly depending on region and winemaker
The Versatility of Zweigelt
Zweigelt is another Austrian red wine grape variety that is known for its versatility. It can produce a range of styles, from light and fruity to full-bodied and spicy.
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Flavor Profile
Zweigelt wines exhibit a complex flavor profile, with notes of dark fruit, spices, and subtle hints of earthy and floral notes.
Rich, full-bodied wines from Austria’s indigenous St Laurent grape variety.
The wine is made from the St Laurent grape variety, which is a cross between the Pinot Noir and the Blaufränkisch grape varieties. The wine is typically aged for 6-12 months in oak barrels, which contributes to its rich, full-bodied flavor profile.
The Origins of St Laurent
St Laurent is an indigenous grape variety in Austria, with a history dating back to the 19th century. It is believed to be a cross between the Pinot Noir and the Blaufränkisch grape varieties, making it a unique and distinctive wine. The grape variety was initially used for blending purposes, but in recent years, it has gained popularity as a standalone wine.
Characteristics of St Laurent
The Regions of Austria Where St Laurent is Produced
St Laurent is produced in almost every region of Austria, including:
Each region brings its unique terroir and climate to the production of St Laurent, resulting in a diverse range of wines with distinct flavor profiles.
The Production Process of St Laurent
The production process of St Laurent involves several steps:
