Winemaker Notes
The distinctive soil-type of the Kraichgau is “Keuper”, a red-colored, iron-rich clay and limestone conglomerate that seems tailor-made for what might reasonably be termed a “Burgundian” style. This nicely colored and unexaggerated wine has been a success from Day One. It is predictably stylish and honest, with well-judged oak tones and a salty tail. After 2015’s high charge, 2016 offers a more moderate, some might say typical, expression. 2017 is somewhere between the two.
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.
