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Zweigelt

Zweigelt is a red grape variety primarily found in Austria and is the country’s most widely planted red grape. Developed in 1922 by Fritz Zweigelt, it is a crossing of Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent grapes. Zweigelt wines tend to be light to medium-bodied, with delicate aromas and flavours of raspberry, blackberry and pepper.

Colour, Aromas and Taste Profile

Zweigelt grapes are light to dark red in colour, have thin skins and are relatively easy to grow. The wines produced are ruby red in colour, with aromas of fresh red fruits, such as raspberry, blackberry and cherry. They also have hints of pepper and spice. On the palate, Zweigelt wines are light and generally smooth, with light tannins and fresh acidity.

Fresh Zweigelt grapes on the vine

Regional Features & Food Pairings

Zweigelt is grown primarily in Austria and is the country’s most widely planted red grape variety. It is also grown in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Germany. Zweigelt is an early budding, mid ripening variety with can produce high yields. The variety is known for its susceptibility to berry shrivel. In the winery, winemakers tend to use short maceration times and moderate oak aging to produce fresh wines for early consumption. In Austria, Zweigelt is used to produce a range of styles, from light, delicate wines to concentrated, full-bodied wines. In the Czech Republic, Zweigelt is used to produce light, floral wines with red fruit aromas. In Slovakia and Hungary, Zweigelt wines tend to be full-bodied and tannic, with intense aromas of dark fruits. Zweigelt wines pair well with a variety of dishes, from grilled vegetables, to heartier dishes such as grilled meats and stews.

Foods to pair with Zweigelt:

Pasta
Beef
Game
Sausage
Smoky
Fish
Light meat
Salad
Fun Fact about Zweigelt
Zweigelt is often blended with other grape varieties, such as Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent, to create unique and interesting wines.

Top Wines with Zweigelt

Bottle of Meinklang Burgenland Red from search results

Meinklang Burgenland Red Natural

Meinklang

User Rating:
3.6
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.3
Meinklang's Burgenland Red is an emblematic wine that beautifully encapsulates the ethos of biodynamic farming and natural winemaking practices, hailing from the picturesque region of Burgenland in Austria. The family-run Meinklang farm operates in harmony with nature, utilizing biodynamic principles to cultivate their vineyards and create wines that are a true reflection of their environment. This red blend, primarily composed of indigenous Austrian grape varieties such as Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, and St. Laurent, is a testament to the farm's commitment to sustainability and the expression of terroir. Grown in the fertile, mineral-rich soils of Burgenland, these grapes imbue the wine with a unique character and complexity. Fermented with native yeasts and minimal intervention, Meinklang's Burgenland Red is a vibrant, unfiltered wine that showcases the purity and vitality of its ingredients.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Chicken
Pork
Burger, Sandwich And Wrap
Pasta
Soup
Vegetable
Asian Food
Pizza
Salmon
Noodle
Thai
Lamb
Cheese
Game
Lasagna
Duck And Goose
Ham And Bacon
Egg
Innards
Mushroom
Casserole
Sausage
Turkey
Potato
Risotto
Corn Meal
Boar
Quiche And Savoury Tart
Corn
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$18.00
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1 Vintage Available
Bottle of Heinrich Red from search results

Heinrich Red

Heinrich

User Rating:
3.5
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.0
"Heinrich Red" is a compelling red wine blend produced by Weingut Heinrich, located in Burgenland, Austria. Gernot Heinrich, the winemaker, is renowned for his dedication to biodynamic farming practices and his innovative approach to winemaking, which respects both the environment and the natural character of the grapes. This wine is a testament to the diversity and quality of Austrian red wines, blending native and international grape varieties such as Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, and Merlot. The vineyards benefit from the unique Pannonian climate and the diverse soils ranging from loamy to sandy and limestone, contributing to the complexity and depth of the wine. "Heinrich Red" is crafted with minimal intervention, aiming to showcase the pure expression of the fruit and terroir. It's a vibrant, accessible wine that embodies the modern Austrian winemaking spirit, offering a fresh take on traditional blends.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Chicken
Pork
Pasta
Burger, Sandwich And Wrap
Soup
Vegetable
Asian Food
Steak
Lamb
Thai
Game
Duck And Goose
Innards
Ham And Bacon
Turkey
Mushroom
Sausage
Casserole
Risotto
Potato
Boar
Quiche And Savoury Tart
Corn Meal
Corn
Oxtail
Appetizer
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$15.99
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2 Vintages Available
Bottle of Claus Preisinger Puszta Libre! from search results

Claus Preisinger Puszta Libre! Natural

Claus Preisinger

User Rating:
4.0
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
3.8
Claus Preisinger Puszta Libre! is a unique and exciting wine produced by Claus Preisinger, a renowned winemaker from Austria. This wine is made from grapes grown in the Burgenland region, which is known for its sandy soils and hot summers. The vineyard features old vines that are carefully tended to by hand, resulting in a wine that is full of character and complexity. The winemaking process involves minimal intervention, allowing the natural flavors and aromas of the grapes to shine through. The resulting wine is a vibrant and lively red, with notes of dark fruit, spice, and earth. It is a perfect example of the unique and exciting wines that can be found in Austria.
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Food Pairing:
Cheese
Beef
Croquette
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$23.00
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1 Vintage Available
Bottle of Weingut R&A Pfaffl Zweigelt vom Haus from search results

Weingut R&A Pfaffl Zweigelt vom Haus

Weingut R&A Pfaffl

User Rating:
3.8
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
3.8
Weingut R&A Pfaffl Zweigelt vom Haus is a delightful red wine with the expertise of the Pfaffl family. Produced in the renowned appellation of Austria, in Niederösterreich, this wine is made from the Zweigelt grape variety. The vineyards where the grapes are grown benefit from unique features such as favorable soil composition and optimal sun exposure. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the grapes and gentle handling to preserve their flavors. The resulting wine is characterized by its vibrant red color, medium body, and a bouquet of red fruits. With its balanced acidity and smooth tannins, this wine is perfect for those seeking a versatile and approachable red wine experience.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Pork
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$25.25
Go to Shop
2 Vintages Available
Bottle of Claus Preisinger Kieselstein Zweigelt from search results

Claus Preisinger Kieselstein Zweigelt Natural

Claus Preisinger

User Rating:
4.0
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
3.8
Claus Preisinger Kieselstein Zweigelt is a captivating red wine that showcases the expertise of its producer. Crafted in a renowned appellation, this wine is made from grapes grown in exceptional vineyards. The vineyard features contribute to the wine's unique character, with its distinct terroir and favorable climate. The winemaking process is carefully executed, resulting in a wine that beautifully expresses the varietal's characteristics. With its vibrant and expressive style, Claus Preisinger Kieselstein Zweigelt offers a delightful balance of fruitiness and elegance. This wine is sure to impress wine enthusiasts seeking a high-quality and memorable experience.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Cheese
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$30.44
Go to Shop
2 Vintages Available