Blaufränkisch 2022

Wine description for Blaufränkisch 2022 from Meinklang

In the heart of Burgenland, where the Pannonian Plain meets Lake Neusiedl, the Michlits family cultivates a Blaufränkisch at their biodynamic Meinklang winery that captures the essence of this Austrian landscape. This 2022 vintage embodies the unadulterated interpretation of a grape variety that has a long, albeit often underestimated, history in Central Europe. Known as Lemberger in Germany, Blaufränkisch finds its true home here in Burgenland - where the region's warm days and cool nights perfectly emphasise its characteristic acidity and depth of fruit.

Visual impression

In the glass, the colour is a deep cherry red with violet reflections that gently lightens towards the periphery. The colour density testifies to the optimal ripeness of the grapes, while the transparency at the rim hints at the freshness of the vintage - a visual promise of structure without heaviness.

Nose

The flavour unfolds in fascinating layers. Initially, you encounter a composition of dark fruits - juicy sweet cherries and ripe plums dominate, supported by morello cherries and wild blackberries. With increasing aeration, the wine reveals its spicy complexity: Cinnamon, Juniper and a fine Pepper flavourreminiscent of the spice gardens of Burgenland. Particularly noteworthy is the vegetal component - a hint of sun-ripened tomato and mild paprika, which is typical of Blaufränkisch from cooler locations. Herbal flavours of Rosemary, Sage and Lovage complete the picture, while subtle notes of undergrowth, coniferous forest and fine cedar spice reflect the biodynamic cultivation and terroir.

Palate

On the palate, this Blaufränkisch surprises with its apparent lightness - a wine of only 12% alcohol, which nevertheless possesses deep expressiveness. The lively acidity structure, the trademark of the variety, cuts precisely through the fullness of the fruit and gives the wine a vibrant energy. The texture is remarkably silky, almost transparent in its purity, while the tannins are restrained but present - they give the wine structure without rigour.

A fascinating transformation takes place on the finish - the initial dark fruit gives way to lighter tones of Raspberry and surprisingly white strawberry. This versatility is characteristic of the best examples of this grape variety and testifies to the careful vinification at Meinklang, where intervention is minimised in order to preserve the authentic expression of the terroir.

General information

This Blaufränkisch 2022 from Meinklang represents the new generation of Austrian red wines - precise, transparent and terroir-focussed. With its moderate alcohol strength of 12.0% vol. and restrained residual sweetness, it epitomises the contemporary approach of the Michlits family, who have been working according to biodynamic principles for generations. Their holistic agriculture, which combines viticulture with animal husbandry and arable farming, creates an ecosystem that is reflected in the complexity and authenticity of their wines.

Food pairing suggestions

The vibrant acidity and medium tannin structure predestine this Blaufränkisch for a variety of culinary accompaniments. It is particularly harmonious with Braised pork cheeks with glazed kohlrabiwhere the acidity of the wine contrasts perfectly with the succulence of the slow-cooked meat. For vegetarians we offer Grilled celeriac steaks with herb pesto and roasted pine nuts a convincing partnership, with the earthy notes of the vegetables corresponding with the spicy components of the wine. An unexpected but brilliant interplay is created with Roast duck breast with rice noodles, sprouts and cashew in a spicy paprika sauce - Here, the fruit of the wine combines with the sweetness of the poultry, while its herbal notes pick up and extend the Asian spices.

This Blaufränkisch is an eloquent testimony to why Burgenland is increasingly gaining international recognition for its characterful, well-balanced red wines - and why Meinklang is one of the most exciting producers in the region.