# Blaufränkisch Leithaberg DAC (2019)

- **Producer:** Weingut Heinrich
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Blaufränkisch
- **Region:** Burgenland, Austria
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €23
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, cherry, fig, black pepper, elderberry, blossom, forest floor, wet leaves, cinnamon

## About this wine

The Heinrich Leithaberg Blaufränkisch 2019 is crafted by Weingut Heinrich, led by Gernot and Heike Heinrich, in Austria's Burgenland region. This wine hails from the Leithaberg (Leitha hills), specifically from old vineyards on south-east facing slopes in Jois, Winden, and Breitenbrunn, overlooking Lake Neusiedl. The unique terroir, characterized by fossil-rich limestone, calcareous sandstone, and mica schist soils, imparts a distinctive minerality to the wine. Weingut Heinrich is deeply committed to biodynamic viticulture, fostering healthy soil and a biologically diverse ecosystem, which they believe is fundamental to producing high-quality, expressive wines. The 2019 vintage is particularly noted as a 'masterclass in Austrian Blaufränkisch styling,' showcasing a compelling balance of youthful vibrancy and concentrated character, making it a prime example of modern Austrian winemaking that marries power with elegance and transparency.

## Interesting facts

- Weingut Heinrich practices biodynamic viticulture, emphasizing soil health and a diverse ecosystem in their vineyards.
- The wine's distinctive minerality is attributed to the unique fossil-rich limestone, calcareous sandstone, and mica schist soils of the Leithaberg DAC.
- Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts, reflecting a commitment to natural processes.
- The Heinrich Leithaberg Blaufränkisch 2019 is certified as suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

## Food pairing

This Blaufränkisch, with its vibrant acidity, medium tannins, and juicy dark fruit profile, is an excellent match for hearty and aromatic dishes. Its structure and concentration allow it to stand up to rich meats and game, while its ripe acidity cuts through fattiness, cleansing the palate. The wine's savory spice and peppery notes complement herbs and spices commonly found in robust cuisine, making it versatile with braised dishes, grilled meats, and aged cheeses.

## Wine making process

The viticulture for Heinrich Leithaberg Blaufränkisch 2019 is biodynamic, with a strong emphasis on soil health and biodiversity, including planting shrubs and trees among the vines. Grapes were hand-harvested in mid-September from old vineyards. In the cellar, the wine undergoes spontaneous fermentation using indigenous yeasts in a combination of wooden vats and steel tanks. Following fermentation, the wine macerates on its skins for three weeks before a gentle basket pressing. It is then aged for 18 to 20 months in 500-litre oak barrels, specifically used tonneaux, allowing for subtle evolution without overt oak influence. The wine is bottled without filtration and with only a small amount of sulphur, reflecting a minimal intervention approach.