Blaufränkisch 2023

Wine Description for Blaufränkisch 2023 by Clemens Krutzler

Colour & Appearance

Medium-bodied ruby red with vibrant violet reflections – young, bright, and of undisguised freshness.

Nose

Clean and cool, like an early autumn morning in Southern Burgenland. Crisp red cherries and raspberries take centre stage, dew-fresh and without any heaviness. In the background, black pepper and a hint of pink peppercorns shimmer – subtly spicy, never overbearing. A Blaufränkisch that puts its cards face up on the table.

Palate

Here, Krutzler demonstrates that elegance and energy are not opposites. With the esprit of a white wine, this Blaufränkisch glides across the palate – feather-light, juicy, and carried by a fresh, nervous-vibrant acidity. The fine, silky tannins provide counterpoints without slowing down the rapid flow. Only 11.5% alcohol, but with a tempo that is highly addictive.

Finish

Juicy and tart, with a pleasant coolness and length. The wine bids farewell with a dry, invigorating echo of red fruit and a light mineral note – and you inevitably reach for the glass again.

Terroir & Origin

The grapes come from the Ratschen, Weinberg, and Reihburg vineyard sites in the municipalities of Deutsch-Schützen and Eisenberg – the southernmost tip of Burgenland, where iron-rich clay soils and slate impart the characteristic spice and minerality to the Blaufränkisch.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Ripe Blaufränkisch grapes, harvested on 22 September 2023, processed as whole bunches and whole berries. Five days of skin contact in open fermentation vats, followed by fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation also took place in steel tanks. Five months of ageing in tank, then nine months in used 500-litre wooden casks – an ageing process that protects the fruit and imparts depth. Bottled unfiltered.

Food Pairings

A wine for uncomplicated enjoyment: Grilled lamb cutlets, charcuterie boards with spicy salami and hard cheeses, mushroom risotto, or a simple pasta al pomodoro. Also a delight when served chilled alongside Austrian tavern classics like Liptauer spread and bread.

Special Features

At just 11.5% alcohol, this Blaufränkisch is a rare plea for lightness without compromising on aromatic intensity. Bottled unfiltered, it retains its lively, untamed side – a natural character with style.