Today we’d like to feature Austria’s most planted red grape “Zweigelt” which was created in 1922 by Fritz Zweigelt by crossing Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent. Zweigelt is also known as Rotburger (not to be confused with Rotberger), Zweigeltrebe, and Blauer Zweigelt. This variety really gained recognition after the World War II and nowadays is the most widespread red wine variety in Austria which can be found in suitable sites in all wine-producing regions. Because Zweigelt buds later than Saint-Laurent and ripens earlier than Blaufrankisch, it provides a kind of insurance policy in the vineyard. While the other two varieties are susceptible to harsh weather conditions,, Zweigelt vines typically dodge these seasonal threats. A classic Austrian Zweigelt is richly colored with a deep, bright core of spiced cherry and raspberry flavors. The finest examples have the potential to cellar well for a decade or so, but the majority are best consumed within a few years of release. Food matches for Zweigelt include: – Roasted ham hock – Grilled sausages with mustard – Duck confit Circo Vino is the proud importer of Zweigelt wine through our winery partners in Austria: – Weingut Günter u. Regina Triebaumer – Weingut Hajszan Neumann – Johanneshof Reinisch Thanks to AustrianWine© and WineSearcher© for part of the information.