Zweigelt

Zweigelt is a red wine grape variety that is predominantly grown in Austria. It was developed in 1922 by Fritz Zweigelt, who crossbred the St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch grape varieties. Zweigelt is now the most widely grown red grape variety in Austria, accounting for approximately 14% of the country's vineyard area.

History

Zweigelt was created by Fritz Zweigelt, a scientist at the Federal Institute for Viticulture and Pomology at Klosterneuburg, Austria. He crossbred the St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch grape varieties in an attempt to create a new variety that combined the best characteristics of both. The new grape was initially named "Rotburger" after the town of its origin, but was later renamed "Zweigelt" in honor of its creator.

Characteristics

Zweigelt grapes are medium to large in size and have a dark blue skin. They are known for their high yield and resistance to various diseases, making them a popular choice among winemakers. The wines produced from Zweigelt grapes are typically deep red in color and have a medium body. They are known for their fruity flavors, often described as reminiscent of cherries, and their soft tannins.

Viticulture

Zweigelt is a versatile grape that can be grown in a variety of soil types, but it thrives best in deep, loamy soils. It is a relatively early ripening variety, typically harvested in late September to early October. Due to its high yield, careful vineyard management is necessary to prevent overproduction and ensure the production of high-quality wines.

Wine Styles

Zweigelt wines can be produced in a variety of styles, ranging from light and fruity wines meant to be consumed young, to full-bodied, oak-aged wines with aging potential. The latter style is often produced in the Burgenland region of Austria, where the grape can achieve higher levels of ripeness due to the region's warm climate.

Food Pairing

Zweigelt wines are versatile when it comes to food pairing. They can be paired with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, game, and strong cheeses. The lighter styles of Zweigelt also pair well with fish and poultry dishes.

See Also

• Austrian Wine
• St. Laurent (grape)
• Blaufränkisch