Blaufränkisch

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Lemberger blaufrankisch leaf at Red Willow

Burgenland in Austria

Pinot Saint Laurent

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Blaufränkisch is a grape variety used for red wine production, known for its rich color, tannic nature, and spicy character. It is a late-ripening variety that is primarily grown in Central Europe, especially in Austria, where it is considered one of the country's most important red wine grapes. Blaufränkisch is also cultivated in Hungary (where it is known as Kékfrankos), Germany, Slovakia, Croatia, and the United States, among other countries.

Characteristics

Blaufränkisch produces wines that are typically deep in color with a pronounced tannin structure, making them suitable for aging. The wines often exhibit flavors of dark berries, cherries, and spices, with a notable acidity that can contribute to their aging potential. In cooler climates, Blaufränkisch wines may also present peppery and earthy notes.

Viticulture

This grape variety prefers warmer climates but can adapt to cooler regions as well. It buds late, reducing the risk of spring frost damage, but also ripens late, which can pose a challenge in regions where autumn is cool and wet. Blaufränkisch is susceptible to various vine diseases, including downy mildew, but its thick skin provides some protection against rot.

Regions

Austria

In Austria, Blaufränkisch is predominantly grown in the Burgenland and Lower Austria regions. It is often used to produce varietal wines and plays a significant role in the country's red wine production. Austrian Blaufränkisch is known for its elegance, complexity, and ability to express terroir, particularly in the DAC (Districtus Austriae Controllatus) regions of Mittelburgenland and Leithaberg, where it produces wines of high quality and distinct character.

Hungary

In Hungary, where it is called Kékfrankos, the grape is widely planted across several wine regions, including Sopron, Eger, and Szeksárd. Hungarian Kékfrankos wines can range from light and fruity to more structured and complex, often reflecting the diverse terroirs of the country.

Other Regions

Blaufränkisch is also found in smaller quantities in Germany (particularly in the Franken region), Slovakia, Croatia (where it is known as Frankovka), and parts of the United States, such as Washington State and New York's Finger Lakes region. In each of these areas, winemakers are exploring the grape's potential to produce high-quality, distinctive wines.

Food Pairing

Blaufränkisch wines, with their combination of acidity, tannin, and spicy fruit flavors, pair well with a variety of foods. They are particularly suited to game, beef, and lamb dishes, as well as to hearty vegetarian options like mushroom stews and grilled vegetables.

Aging Potential

The aging potential of Blaufränkisch wines varies depending on the style and region of production. While some lighter, fruitier styles are best consumed young, more structured and tannic examples from top producers and regions can benefit from several years of cellaring, developing added complexity and smoothness over time.

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