# Zweigelt 18,5 (2024)

- **Producer:** Parvenü Wine
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Zweigelt
- **Region:** Niederösterreich, Austria
- **Style:** Natural
- **Average price:** €19
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, black cherry, blackcurrant, raspberry

## About this wine

Parvenü Wine, led by self-taught winemaker Reinhard Pacejka, is an Austrian producer based in the Weinviertel region. The brand's name, 'Parvenü,' signifies an 'upstart' challenging traditional winemaking norms, a philosophy embodied by their distinctive upside-down label. This label serves a dual purpose: to provoke a change in perspective and to instruct consumers to gently shake the bottle, integrating the natural sediment common in unfiltered wines. The vineyards are managed with a 'low intervention' ethos, avoiding chemical inputs and focusing on authentic viticulture. The 2024 Zweigelt 18,5 is a testament to this approach, aiming for 'high drinkability' and wines that are honest expressions of their origin.

## Interesting facts

- The upside-down label is a signature design choice, encouraging a new viewpoint.
- Parvenü translates to 'upstart,' reflecting the winemaker's unconventional approach.
- The producer emphasizes 'no fairy tales and plant poison' in their vineyards.
- The wines are designed for 'drinking and chatting. For laughing and crying.'

## Food pairing

The wine's natural character and moderate structure make it versatile. Its inherent fruitiness and balanced acidity can cut through richer dishes, while its earthy undertones complement gamey meats and mushrooms. The absence of heavy tannins means it won't overpower lighter proteins or vegetable-forward dishes.

## Wine making process

Parvenü Wine's winemaking process is rooted in a 'low intervention' philosophy. Winemaker Reinhard Pacejka utilizes natural yeasts for fermentation, allowing the inherent character of the Zweigelt grapes from the Weinviertel region to shine through. The wines are typically unfiltered and bottled with minimal manipulation to preserve their authentic profile. This approach emphasizes a direct connection to nature, avoiding chemical additives in the vineyard and limiting cellar work. The distinctive upside-down label is both a branding statement and a functional element, encouraging consumers to gently mix the natural sediment before serving, ensuring a complete sensory experience.
