# Zweigelt (2021)

- **Producer:** Weingut Umathum
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Zweigelt
- **Region:** Burgenland, Austria
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €15
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, liquorice, black pepper, red cherry, strawberry, red plum, blueberry, nougat, smoke

## About this wine

The 2021 Umathum Zweigelt is a red wine from Austria's Burgenland region, made from 100% Zweigelt grapes. Weingut Umathum, a family estate, is known for its dedication to traditional Austrian varietals and biodynamic viticulture. The Burgenland region, with its diverse soils and climate, provides an ideal setting for grape cultivation. The 2021 vintage was noted for its excellent ripening conditions, leading to a concentrated wine.

## Interesting facts

- Zweigelt is Austria's most planted red grape.
- Umathum practices biodynamic farming, inspired by Rudolf Steiner.
- The wine matures over two winters in old oak barrels.
- Hand-picked grapes are a hallmark of Umathum's vineyard practices.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and balanced acidity make it a versatile food companion. Its fruit-forward character, complemented by savory and herbal notes, pairs well with richer proteins like pork and game, where the wine's structure can cut through fat. Herbal and spice notes in the wine can echo those found in seasoned dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Umathum Zweigelt involves fermentation on skins in stainless steel tanks, followed by pumping over the pomace. Malolactic fermentation occurs in wooden barrels. The wine then matures over two winters in old oak barrels without filtration. Grapes are hand-picked, and the winery adheres to organic and biodynamic farming principles.