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.

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.

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.

Zweigelt is often blended with other grape varieties, such as Blaufränkisch and St.

Laurent, to create unique and interesting wines.