# Arndorfer Rotwein (2023)

- **Producer:** Weingut Arndorfer
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Zweigelt, Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Niederösterreich, Austria
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 11.0%
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** redcurrant, raspberry, red cherry

## About this wine

The Arndorfer Rotwein is a red wine from Austria's Kamptal region, produced by Weingut Arndorfer. This 2023 vintage is a blend primarily of Zweigelt and Pinot Noir, with one source indicating an 80/20 split. The winemakers, Martin and Anna Arndorfer, are known for their progressive approach and commitment to organic viticulture. Their estate vineyards are situated at altitudes between 200 and nearly 500 meters, influenced by the Bohemian Massif and a continental climate. The wine is characterized by its purity and freshness, a result of their minimalist winemaking philosophy.

## Interesting facts

- A blend of Zweigelt and Pinot Noir, a classic Austrian pairing.
- Certified organic vineyards are farmed with a focus on nature.
- Wild fermentation is used, relying on native yeasts.
- Very minimal sulfur is added, only at bottling.

## Food pairing

The wine's light-to-medium body and fresh acidity make it versatile. It can cut through the richness of pork and duck, complement the earthy notes of vegetarian dishes, and stand up to the bold flavors of cured meats and seafood. The fruit-forward character bridges well with fruit-based sauces and garnishes.

## Wine making process

The Arndorfer Rotwein undergoes wild fermentation using native yeasts in a combination of neutral wood and stainless steel. A significant portion of the fruit (three-quarters) is fermented with whole clusters, with some whole-berry and destemmed fruit also included. The wine is aged for six months in neutral oak barrels, with a mix of larger and smaller formats. Minimal intervention is a hallmark of the winemaking process, with no fining of the must, no added yeast, and no stopping of malolactic fermentation. Gentle filtering is employed before bottling, with only small levels of sulfur added at this stage. The estate's vineyards are certified organic.