Author: Dirk Chan
Our online feature this week is the Wachter-Weisler Handgemenge Blaufrankisch Zweigelt (Burgenland, Austria) – $18.99, regularly $24.99.
In 2010, at an almost absurdly young age of 20, Christoph Wachter-Wiesler took over all responsibilities of his family winery. As a fifth-generation winemaker, Christoph immediately shifted the focus to Blaufränkisch, the indigenous grape variety that probably originated not far from the area and has always been around. Over the last decade, Christoph painstakingly converted to organic farming practices in all 65 parcels of 16 total hectares of vines spread across the gentle hills around the village Deutsch Schützen-Eisenberg, where Christoph’s father has been the mayor and the Wachter-Wiesler family call home.
The Wachter-Wiesler wines are some of the most exciting red wines made in Austria today. Wachter-Wiesler wines have silky texture, floral aromatics, great energy, and elegance – truly Blaufränkisch at its finest. Certified organic.
Our feature this week is their Handgemenge Red, a light red wine made from a blend of Blaufrankisch and Zweigelt, made all in steel and bottled unfiltered with minimal SO2. Just under 12% alcohol with floral (violets), raspberry, pomegranate and lilacs with some funk as well. The palate is juicy dark berry fruit, earthy and mineral driven and a peppery lip smacking finish with nice minerality and acid. Enjoy with a light chill and some burgers, Asian duck or on a cold winter night with a simple beef stew.
Wachter-Weisler Handgemenge Blaufrankisch Zweigelt (Burgenland, Austria) – $18.99, regularly $24.99