Velue rot 2023

Wine description for Velue red 2023 by Johannes Zillinger

Colour & Appearance

Luminous, transparent purple with bluish reflections – a wine that announces its lightness and freshness visually from the outset. The low density reveals the intention: this is about drinkability, not extraction.

Nose

Wonderfully expressive and carefree. Elderberry, sweet cherry and blackcurrant dominate the bouquet, underpinned by raspberry. Spicy notes of black pepper, allspice and juniper provide intriguing counterpoints. A subtle lactic note reminiscent of cherry-cream sweets, whilst lemon balm, sage and mint deliver aromatic freshness.

Palate

Juicy, lively, uncomplicated – precisely what one expects from a modern entry-level wine. The fruit presents itself crisp and astringent, like biting into a handful of ripe berries. The lactic component returns, but is continuously broken up by vital acidity. With just 11.5% alcohol, the wine remains featherlight and invites glass after glass. The fruit stretches vertically without ever becoming heavy.

Finish

Medium length, fresh and characterised by berry fruit. The acidity provides a clean, clear conclusion.

Terroir & Origin

From the Weinviertel, three different terroirs: forty-year-old Zweigelt vines on calcareous sandstone, Merlot on loam in a light north-facing site, and Regent from a loess plateau. This diversity lends the wine its multi-layered structure.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Cuvée of 80% Zweigelt, 15% Merlot and 5% Regent. The Zweigelt undergoes four days of skin contact fermentation, the Merlot five days on whole bunches, whilst the Regent is pressed directly – a clever combination for maximum fruit with minimal extraction.

Food Pairing Recommendations

An ideal companion to grilled vegetables, pizza, pasta with tomato sauce or charcuterie. Also an excellent choice with burgers or spicy tapas. Served lightly chilled (12-14°C), a perfect summer wine.

Special Features

Johannes Zillinger’s answer to the question: Can Austrian red wine be uncomplicated and delicious? The answer is an unequivocal yes. A wine that proves the entry-level segment need not mean compromise.