Zierfandler is a grape variety grown primarily in the #thermenregion of #Austria. An indigenous grape variety to the area, the remaining 100 hectares or so are conserved by the efforts of wineries like Johanneshof Reinisch. Traditionally #Zierfandler is blended with #rotgipfler, it’s sibling indigenous grape. Yet, stand alone, premium examples of this variety also are quite remarkable. Recently, we opened a bottle of Reinisch’s single vineyard “Speigel” Zierfandler from vintage 2012. It was a delicious epiphany. The wine is still tightly packed with fruit and firm acidity. A bit broader in the mid-palate than most Austrian white wines we experience in the USA, this wine and vintage would certainly appeal to lovers of Loire Valley Chenin Blanc. Texturally it brings to mind well crafted, Northern Italian white wines yet it’s beautiful, raw, yellow fruit, nice bone structure, and saline notes speak strongly of its Austrian heritage. Thoroughly enjoyed this age-worthy wine! #austrianwine #theremregion #ageablewine #delicious #indigenousgrapes #organicfarming #lowsulphurwine #familybusiness #brothersinwine #smallimporter #womanownedbusiness #asianownedbusiness #smallbusiness