Blaufränkisch Edelgraben Leithaberg DAC 2017

Wine Description for Blaufränkisch Edelgraben Leithaberg DAC 2017 by Heinrich

Colour & Appearance

Deep, dark ruby red with violet reflections, testament to the concentration and youthfulness of this Blaufränkisch. A wine that promises depth and substance in the glass.

Nose

Requires time and air to open up – then reveals a fascinating aromatic spectrum. Dark berries dominate, accompanied by black pepper and an earthy minerality that immediately recalls the limestone terroir of Leithaberg. Subtle notes of graphite and forest floor lend additional complexity to the bouquet.

Palate

Here the Edelgraben reveals its true greatness: powerful and gripping, with an almost surprising finesse. The tannins are present, but never rustic – rather, they create a fine-knit structure that carries the wine. Despite its untamed power, it remains elegant and refined. The dark fruit is supported by vibrant acidity that guarantees freshness and tension. Remarkable is the density without heaviness – a hallmark of great Leithaberg Blaufränkisch wines.

Finish

Long, stony-mineral, with lingering pepper notes. The aftertaste is cool and precise, shaped by the limestone foundation of the vineyards. A finale that invites further contemplation.

Terroir & Origin

Old vineyards on south-east facing slopes of the Leitha Mountains near Breitenbrunn. The soil consists of fossil-rich limestone and calcareous sandstone as well as mica schist – a geological combination that gives the wine its characteristic minerality and tension.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Blaufränkisch from biodynamically managed vineyards (Respekt-certified). Hand-harvested in early October, spontaneous fermentation, three weeks of skin contact in wooden fermentation vessels, gentle pressing with basket press. Maturation over 28 months in used 500-litre oak barrels. Moderate 13% alcohol underscores the elegance of the vintage.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Braised beef, game dishes such as venison roast, lamb rack with herb crust, aged mountain cheese or duck breast with root vegetables.

Special Characteristics

A prime example of Gernot Heinrich’s philosophy: biodynamic viticulture meets minimal intervention in the cellar. The Edelgraben embodies the new Austrian Blaufränkisch school – powerful, yet never clumsy, with terroir precision rather than fruit bomb.