# Schwarz Rot Zweigelt (2021)

- **Producer:** Weingut Schwarz
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Zweigelt
- **Region:** Burgenland, Austria
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** hibiscus, cassis, violet, orange zest, blackberry, raspberry, sour cherry, cloves, vanilla

## About this wine

The Schwarz Rot Zweigelt from Weingut Schwarz is a red wine from the Burgenland region of Austria, crafted from 100% Zweigelt grapes. This wine is distinguished by its notable density and structure, a characteristic attributed to careful vineyard practices, including the immediate cooling of grapes post-harvest. The 'Schwarz Rot' designation signifies one of the producer's early and foundational wines, highlighting the potential of the Zweigelt varietal. Weingut Schwarz is situated in Andau, a warm and sunny part of Austria, with vineyards also in the Leithagebirge area, benefiting from varied soil compositions that support ripe red wine production. Winemaker Johann Schwarz's background as a former butcher adds a distinctive human element to the estate's narrative, as he transitioned to winemaking with a focus on quality and expression.

## Interesting facts

- Johann Schwarz's transition from butcher to winemaker is a unique origin story.
- The wine is considered a 'cult Zweigelt'.
- Weingut Schwarz emphasizes quality over quantity through reduced yields.
- The estate practices sustainable and organic farming.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and well-integrated tannins complement the richness of red meats and pork dishes. Its fruit-forward character and balanced acidity can cut through fattier components, while subtle spice notes can harmonize with seasoned preparations.

## Wine making process

The production of Schwarz Rot Zweigelt involves a focus on quality through reduced vineyard yields, aiming for optimal ripeness in the Zweigelt grapes. A distinctive technique employed is the immediate cooling of grapes after harvest, which helps to preserve their freshness and aromatic profile. Fermentation can take place in various vessels, including stainless steel tanks, large wooden barrels, or smaller oak barrels, depending on the desired outcome for the vintage. Subsequent aging may involve oak, contributing to the wine's structure and complexity, or stainless steel and large wooden barrels to maintain fruit expression. The overall winemaking philosophy at Weingut Schwarz emphasizes producing wines with notable density, power, and structure, supported by sustainable and organic farming practices.