Winemaker Notes
Lemberger, as Blaufränkisch is known in Baden, produces a higher-toned, perhaps finer wine than is typical of the better-known Burgenland examples. Claus has always had an especially deft touch with this truculent grape. The 2015 shows exceptional finesse at a very early age.
Inky magenta with aromas of violets, herbs and spices, Blaufrankisch first appeared in Austria in the 18th century and today is the second most planted red variety in Austria after its own offspring, Zweigelt. Blaufrankisch thrives in the warmer Austrian zones and while most of the global acreage remains here, the variety has travelled a bit outside of its homeland. Somm Secret—In pre-Medieval times grapes were divided into superior quality, those whose origins lay with the Franks, called “Frankisch,” and all others, which were deemed inferior. This well-revered grape took the name, blau (meaning blue or dark) plus, “Frankisch,” or Blaufrankisch.
