Zweigelt
in South Styria
What does the classic Zweigelt from South Styria taste like?
The Zweigelt is Austria’s most widely cultivated red wine variety – but what does it look like in South Styria? Known for its white wines, the region also produces exciting, elegant red wines. The classic Zweigelt from South Styria impresses with fruity elegance, fine flavour and pleasant structure.
The video!
Andreas Muster in conversation with Peter Masser
Andreas Muster spoke to Peter Masser, winemaker at the Masser Winery, about the typical flavour and versatility of this fascinating grape variety.
Zweigelt - The Austrian red wine legend
The Zweigelt was bred in Austria in 1922 by Friedrich Zweigelt and is a cross between Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent. The variety combines the best of both worlds:
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- Fruity aromas of St. Laurent
- fine tannins & spice from Blaufränkisch
- Versatility & charm for uncomplicated enjoyment
Zweigelt is widespread throughout Austria, but shows different characteristics depending on the region.
Fresh, elegant & accessible
While warmer regions of Austria such as Burgenland often produce powerful, tannin-rich Zweigelt wines, South Styria produces a lighter, more elegant variety.
- Fresh & juicy – Not a heavy red wine, but an uncomplicated companion for many occasions.
- Fruity notes – Typical flavours of cherry, blackberry.
- Fine spice – Delicate notes of chocolate, cinnamon & black pepper.
- Stimulating acidity & mild tannins – perfect for an elegant drinking flow.
Thanks to the cool climate and the mineral soils, the Zweigelt ripens more slowly here, which gives it a fresh acidity structure and fine fruit.
How is Zweigelt vinified in South Styria?
Zweigelt is a versatile grape variety, which is cultivated in South Styria in a variety of styles:
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- Fruity & fresh – Classic Zweigelt, matured in steel tanks or large wooden barrel
- Zweigelt Reserve – Stronger, matured in barrique barrels, with spicy roasted flavours.
- Zweigelt Ros̩ & Sekt РLight, fresh variant with crisp fruit flavours.
Food accompaniment - What does the South Styrian Zweigelt go with?
The harmonious style of the Zweigelt makes it a real all-rounder in the kitchen:
- Perfect with pasta & pizza – The fruity flavour is ideal with tomato sauces.
- Excellent with poultry & duck – Especially with dishes with light seasoning.
- Also with meat & grilled dishes – Especially in the stronger reserve version.
- Genious with cheese platters – A versatile accompaniment to mild to savoury varieties.
Thanks to its fresh acidity, the South Styrian Zweigelt also harmonises wonderfully with lighter dishes that should not be overwhelmed by too much tannin.
The fruity red colour!
Conclusion: Zweigelt from South Styria - a charming red wine for connoisseurs
While South Styria is primarily known for its white wines, the classic Zweigelt is an exciting red wine with character. Fruity, elegant and with a fine acidity, it is the perfect red wine for anyone who appreciates light, uncomplicated enjoyment.
Whether solo, with a cosy dinner or as a drinking wine for every day – a glass of South Styrian Zweigelt always brings a portion of Austrian charm
to your glass!
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