Zweigelt 2013

Thomas Leithner is a passionate and original winemaker wishing to work with as much respect as possible for nature. He is the grandson of Dr. Zweigelt , creator in 1922 of this red grape variety, now the most famous in Austria. All vineyards are managed by promoting the principles of Biodynamics , with minimal pesticide intervention. The emblem of the estate also features the Praying Mantis, which is known to only live in a particularly healthy environment. The grapes are carefully harvested by hand and will be pressed and vinified in stainless steel vats. Then, the wine will be transferred to large wooden tuns where it will rest for many months in the presence of its lees in order to soften the tannins and add substance. The aromas are reminiscent of plum , forest fruits , blackberry jam , blackcurrant , black cherry liqueur , violet , menthol , licorice and black pepper . The palate is lively and stimulating with a supple tannin structure and juicy substance. The acidity is elegant and the length is enlivened by mineral notes of gunflint. A very beautiful Zweigelt!

For more than ten years, Austrian viticulture has made an enormous leap in terms of wine quality. Today, Austrian winemakers no longer produce cheap wines for mass consumption, but refined and complex wines. Austria produces 65% white wines. From a fairly global point of view, Austrian wines are more powerful and richer than those of its German neighbor. The great national grape variety and the most widely planted is Grüner Veltliner (native white grape variety). Red wine production continues to increase in volume, intensity and quality. Especially in Burgenland, producers make the most of an original grape variety combining local (Blaufränkish, Saint-Laurent, Zweigelt) and French (Cabernet-Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir) grape varieties. Austria's climate is predominantly continental with cold winters and warm summers. The country is subject to 4 main influences. To the east, continental influences coming from Pannonia, to the west Atlantic influences but also cold winds coming from the north and to the south Mediterranean influences. The Danube, which meanders languorously through many vineyards, brings numerous microclimates to the vineyards.