Grape Variety
Zweigelt
"TSVY-gelt"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Zweigelt
Origin
Austria
History
Zweigelt is an Austrian red grape variety created in 1922 by Friedrich Zweigelt, a prominent Austrian viticulturist. It is a crossing between the St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch grape varieties. Zweigelt is the most widely planted red-wine grape in Austria, known for its versatility and adaptability to various winemaking styles.
Appearance
Medium-sized, blue-black berries with thick skins, forming compact clusters.
Growing Traits
Zweigelt is an early-budding and mid-ripening variety. It is generally trained on high cordon, and this is still the most widespread training method. The variety is resistant to frost but susceptible to downy mildew, botrytis, and grape wilt.
Wine Characteristics
Body
3/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
2/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
3/5
Medium-bodied with a smooth texture, offering a balanced mouthfeel. Typically vinified dry, highlighting its natural acidity and fruit flavors. Low to medium tannin levels, contributing to a soft and approachable mouthfeel. Medium to high acidity, providing freshness and aging potential. Moderate alcohol content, generally ranging from 11.5% to 13.5%, contributing to the wine's body and intensity.
Taste Profile
Red cherry
Raspberry
Black pepper
Licorice
Chocolate
Zweigelt wines are characterized by their juicy and fruity flavors, including red cherry, raspberry, and plum, complemented by notes of black pepper, licorice, and chocolate. The wines are typically medium-bodied, with low tannins and medium-high acidity, contributing to their approachable and versatile nature.
Food Pairing
Zweigelt's fruit-forward profile and moderate tannins make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as barbecued ribs and burgers, as well as spicy cuisines like Mexican and Indian dishes. The wine's fruitiness also complements hearty pasta dishes and aged cheeses.
Growing Regions
Austria
BurgenlandLower AustriaStyria
Hungary
Sopron
Notable Wines & Producers
Zweigelt
Weingut Stadlmann
Weingut Johanneshof Reinisch
Weingut Mayer am Pfarrplatz
Zweigelt FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Zweigelt?
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Austria
Is Zweigelt wine full bodied?
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Zweigelt has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Zweigelt is Moderate bodied.
Is Zweigelt wine dry or sweet?
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Zweigelt has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Zweigelt is Dry.
Where is Zweigelt wine from?
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Austria
Where is Zweigelt grown?
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Zweigelt is grown in Austria (Burgenland, Lower Austria, Styria)Hungary (Sopron).
What is Zweigelt like?
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Zweigelt wines are characterized by their juicy and fruity flavors, including red cherry, raspberry, and plum, complemented by notes of black pepper, licorice, and chocolate. The wines are typically medium-bodied, with low tannins and medium-high acidity, contributing to their approachable and versatile nature.
What does Zweigelt pair with?
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Zweigelt's fruit-forward profile and moderate tannins make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as barbecued ribs and burgers, as well as spicy cuisines like Mexican and Indian dishes. The wine's fruitiness also complements hearty pasta dishes and aged cheeses.
What does Zweigelt taste like?
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Zweigelt wines are characterized by their juicy and fruity flavors, including red cherry, raspberry, and plum, complemented by notes of black pepper, licorice, and chocolate. The wines are typically medium-bodied, with low tannins and medium-high acidity, contributing to their approachable and versatile nature.
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