# Ried Spitzerberg (2015)

- **Producer:** Weingut Dorli Muhr
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Blaufränkisch
- **Region:** Niederösterreich, Austria
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €85
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, raspberry, black pepper, liquorice, redcurrant, black plum, tobacco, leather, earth

## About this wine

The Weingut Dorli Muhr Ried Spitzerberg 2015 is a 100% Blaufränkisch from the Carnuntum region of Lower Austria. It is classified as an Erste Lage (Erste OTW Lage). The Spitzerberg vineyard is a unique terroir, characterized by its south-facing limestone slope, poor soils, and significant heat, which contribute to the wine's distinctive profile. Weingut Dorli Muhr, founded in 2002, is recognized for its pioneering role in organic viticulture in Carnuntum and its focus on expressing the Spitzerberg's character through a puristic winemaking approach. The 2015 vintage experienced a very dry and hot summer, influencing the wine's concentration and balance.

## Interesting facts

- Spitzerberg is a long limestone ridge exposed to winds.
- Vines for the top cuvée are 40-60 years old.
- Yields are kept extremely low, max 3000 kg/ha.
- The estate converted to fully organic viticulture in 2015.

## Food pairing

The wine's pronounced acidity and fine tannins are well-suited to cut through the richness of roasted and grilled meats, while its complex fruit and mineral notes can complement earthy flavors and herbs.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for the Weingut Dorli Muhr Ried Spitzerberg 2015 emphasizes minimal intervention. Fermentation takes place in open vats, with some foot-trodden grapes and no cultured yeasts. Maceration is gentle, avoiding pumps or mechanical tools, and the must is not temperature-controlled. The wine then ages for two years in large, old oak barrels (fuders), with some vintages potentially bottled unfiltered. The estate has been practicing organic viticulture since 2015.