Grape Variety
Lemberger
"LEM-ber-ger (blou-FRANK-ish)"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Lemberger
Origin
Central Europe, particularly Austria and Germany
History
Lemberger, known as Blaufränkisch in Austria and Kékfrankos in Hungary, is a dark-skinned grape variety that has been cultivated since the Middle Ages. The name 'Blaufränkisch' translates to 'blue Frankish,' indicating its association with superior quality ('Frankish') grapes. DNA profiling has shown that Blaufränkisch is a cross between Gouais blanc (Weißer Heunisch) and Blaue Zimmettraube. The grape is known for producing wines with rich tannins and pronounced spicy character.
Appearance
Medium-sized, dark blue-black berries with firm skins.
Growing Traits
Blaufränkisch is a late-ripening variety that thrives in moderate climates. It is known for its high productivity and adaptability to various soil types. However, over-cropping can lead to thin wines with green, weedy notes. The vine is susceptible to early spring frost due to its early budding and is prone to powdery and downy mildews.
Wine Characteristics
Body
4/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
3/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
3/5
Medium to full-bodied with a robust structure, offering depth and complexity. Typically dry, highlighting its rich fruit character. Moderate to high tannin levels, contributing to a firm and slightly astringent mouthfeel. High acidity, providing freshness and balance to the wine. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally around 12-14%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Taste Profile
Black Cherry
Blackberry
Spices
Pepper
Earthy
Lemberger wines are characterized by rich black fruit flavors, such as black cherry and blackberry, complemented by spicy notes of pepper and earthy undertones. The wines exhibit medium to high tannin levels and fresh acidity, contributing to their aging potential and food-friendly nature.
Food Pairing
Lemberger's high acidity and moderate tannins make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, lamb dishes, and hearty stews. The wine's dark fruit flavors and spicy notes complement rich, flavorful foods, enhancing the dining experience.
Growing Regions
Austria
BurgenlandMittelburgenland
Germany
Württemberg
Hungary
SopronVillánySzekszárdEger
United States
Washington StateNew York (Finger Lakes)
Notable Wines & Producers
Moric Blaufränkisch
Moric Winery
Weninger Blaufränkisch
Weingut Weninger
Chateau Ste. Michelle Lemberger
Chateau Ste. Michelle
Lemberger FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Lemberger?
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Central Europe, particularly Austria and Germany
Is Lemberger wine full bodied?
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Lemberger has a body level of 4 out of 5. Which means that Lemberger is Moderate to Full bodied.
Is Lemberger wine dry or sweet?
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Lemberger has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Lemberger is Dry.
Where is Lemberger wine from?
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Central Europe, particularly Austria and Germany
Where is Lemberger grown?
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Lemberger is grown in Austria (Burgenland, Mittelburgenland)Germany (Württemberg)Hungary (Sopron, Villány, Szekszárd, Eger)United States (Washington State, New York (Finger Lakes)).
What is Lemberger like?
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Lemberger wines are characterized by rich black fruit flavors, such as black cherry and blackberry, complemented by spicy notes of pepper and earthy undertones. The wines exhibit medium to high tannin levels and fresh acidity, contributing to their aging potential and food-friendly nature.
What does Lemberger pair with?
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Lemberger's high acidity and moderate tannins make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, lamb dishes, and hearty stews. The wine's dark fruit flavors and spicy notes complement rich, flavorful foods, enhancing the dining experience.
What does Lemberger taste like?
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Lemberger wines are characterized by rich black fruit flavors, such as black cherry and blackberry, complemented by spicy notes of pepper and earthy undertones. The wines exhibit medium to high tannin levels and fresh acidity, contributing to their aging potential and food-friendly nature.
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