A Beginner’s Guide To Blaufränkisch Wine

Blaufränkisch, my favourite grape variety in Austria! You can definitely see me smiling up there, knowing I’ll soon be enjoying a Blaufränkisch wine!

So let me tell you all I know about this grape variety.

Blaufränkisch was first mentioned in 1862 at a wine exhibition in Vienna under the name Lemberger, but it was not officially renamed Blaufränkisch until 1875.

The name Blaufränkisch literally means “blue Frankish,” and it is thought to have been given to the grape variety because it was considered to be a superior quality wine grape.

Blaufränkisch is grown in many countries, including Austria, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, and Bulgaria. It is known by different names in different countries, including Lemberger in Germany, Kékfrankos in Hungary, and Gamé in Croatia and Bulgaria.

For a long time, it was believed that Blaufränkisch was identical to Pinot Noir or Gamay Noir. However, DNA testing in 2016 revealed that Blaufränkisch is actually a cross between Gouais Blanc and Blaue Zimmettraube, an old Slovenian grape variety. This means that Blaufränkisch is not originally from Austria, as is commonly believed, but from Slovenia.

If you’re new to Blaufränkisch, let me give you some tips and basic information. Here is my beginner’s guide to Blaufränkisch! Feel free to leave a comment if you’ve learnt anything or wish to complete it with additionnal information.

Blaufränkisch is a red grape variety that is known for producing wines with a wide range of flavors, from dark and fruity to spicy and earthy. The specific flavor profile of a Blaufränkisch wine will vary depending on the region where it is grown and the winemaker’s style. Concerning it’s tasting profile, I’d say it’s a mix between northern Rhône Syrah, Nebbiolo from Italy’s Piedmont and Red Burgundy Pinot Noir.

Meet Blaufränkisch

Blaufränkisch has a long history in Burgenland, dating back to the 17th century. It is believed to have been introduced to the region by Croatian settlers. Today, Blaufränkisch accounts for over 60% of all red grape plantings in Burgenland.

Blaufränkisch is a versatile grape that can produce wines in a range of styles, from light and fruity to full-bodied and complex. However, Blaufränkisch wines from Burgenland are typically full-bodied and complex, with flavors of dark fruit, spice, and earth. They are also known for their high acidity, which gives them a refreshing finish. (You get why I love them!)

Here are some of the key characteristics of Blaufränkisch wine:

• High acidity: Blaufränkisch wines typically have high acidity, which gives them a refreshing finish and helps to balance the richness of the fruit flavors.
• Medium to full body: Blaufränkisch wines can range from medium to full body, depending on the region and the winemaker’s style. However, Blaufränkisch wines from Burgenland are typically full-bodied.
• Flavors of dark fruit, spice, and earth: Blaufränkisch wines are known for their flavors of dark fruit, such as black cherry, plum, and blackberry. They can also have notes of spice, such as black pepper and clove, and earth.

If you’re a beginner, Blaufränkisch is a noteworthy wine to explore.

Why? First, Blaufränkisch wines are typically very food-friendly. They can be paired with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and hearty stews.

Second, Blaufränkisch wines are relatively affordable, especially when compared to other red wines of similar quality.

Third, Blaufränkisch wines are relatively easy to find, both in wine shops and restaurant.

Exploring Blaufränkisch Regions

Unlike other grape varieties, Blaufränkisch did not really migrate and remained in its original vineyard. It is therefore widely cultivated across Central Europe, including Hungary, Slovenia, and Croatia.

Hungary has the largest area of Blaufränkisch vineyards in the region, with a total of 20 750ha. Austria follows closely with 7 700 ha dedicated to this grape, while Germany has 4000ha.

However, nowhere is Blaufränkisch more at home than in Burgenland, a region in southeastern Austria that borders Hungary and Slovenia.

Within Burgenland

There are a number of key regions that are known for producing excellent Blaufränkisch.

One of the most important regions is Leithaberg (Neusiedlersee Hügelland), which is located in the northern part of Burgenland. Blaufränkisch represents over 85% of the plantings.

Indeed, these geological complex hills with its essentially fossil limestone but with schist and gneiss higher up make the ideal soil for Blaufränkisch. Some of the top producers in Leithaberg include Hans Nittnaus, Pittnauer and my personal favourite : Kollwentz!❤️

Another important region for Blaufränkisch is Mittelburgenland, which is located in the central part of Burgenland. Blaufränkisch represents 55% of the plantings.

This sheltered region, exposed to the warm air of the Pannonian plains makes it the ideal conditions for this grape variety. The soils, made from clay and loam with some limestone, are richer and deeper than in Leithaberg, which produces full-bodied and spicy Blaufränkisch wines.

Some of the top producers in Mittelburgenland include Prieler and Moric.

Finally, Südburgenland is also known for producing excellent Blaufränkisch wines. The soils in Südburgenland are more varied than in Leithaberg or Mittelburgenland, but they are generally lighter and sandier.

This produces Blaufränkisch wines that are refined and elegant, with flavors of red fruit and spice. Some of the top producers in Südburgenland include Paul Achs, Franz Weninger, and St. Nikolaus.

In addition to Burgenland

Blaufränkisch is also grown in other Austrian regions, such as the Wachau, Carnuntum, and Kremstal. However, the wines from these regions are typically lighter and more fruit-forward than the wines from Burgenland.

What about around the world?

Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Romania, Slovenia and Croatia also have significant plantings of Blaufränkisch with 3500ha, 3000ha, 2000ha, 1500ha and 1000ha respectively.

In Hungary (Villány, Szekszárd, Eger), Blaufränkisch is known as Kékfrankos and is the most planted red grape variety in the country. Kékfrankos wines from Hungary are typically full-bodied and fruity, with flavors of dark cherry, plum, and spice. They are often aged in oak barrels, which adds complexity and structure to the wine.

In Slovenia (Jeruzalem, Haloze, Posavje), Blaufränkisch is known as Modra Frankinja and is grown in the eastern part of the country. Modra Frankinja wines from Slovenia are typically medium-bodied and elegant, with flavors of red fruit, spice, and earth. They are often aged in steel tanks, which preserves the freshness and purity of the fruit.

In Croatia (Međimurje, Plešivica, Slavonia), Blaufränkisch is known as Frankovka and is grown in the northwestern part of the country. Frankovka wines from Croatia are typically light-bodied and fruity, with flavors of red fruit and spice. They are often un-oaked, which preserves the freshness and fruitiness of the wine.

Impact of region on Blaufränkisch wine

The region where Blaufränkisch is grown has a significant impact on the style of wine that is produced. The following are some of the key factors that influence the style of Blaufränkisch wine:

Soil type: The soil type in a region has a major impact on the flavor profile of Blaufränkisch wine.

Limestone soils, such as those found in Leithaberg, produce elegant and refined wines.

Richer, deeper soils, such as those found in Mittelburgenland, produce full-bodied and spicy wines.

Lighter, sandier soils, such as those found in Südburgenland, produce refined and elegant wines with flavors of red fruit and spice. If you want to know more about the impact of soil on wine, check out this post.

Climate: The climate in a region also has an impact on the style of Blaufränkisch wine.

Blaufränkisch is a late-ripening grape, so it needs warm soils and a long growing season. The climate in Burgenland is ideal for Blaufränkisch, with warm, sunny days and cool nights.

This produces wines that are ripe and flavorful, with good acidity.

Winemaking: The winemaker also plays a role in determining the style of Blaufränkisch wine that is produced.

Some winemakers prefer to produce simple, fruity wines that are aged in large casks. Other winemakers prefer to produce denser wines with greater aging potential.

The style of Blaufränkisch wine has changed over the years. In the 1990s, it was more fashionable to produce heavily oaked wines with maximum power and concentration. However, today’s producers and critics have realized that drinkability and balance should be the major criteria.

As a result, Blaufränkisch wines today are less oaky and show more finesse.

Flavor Profiles of Blaufränkisch

Blaufränkisch is a red grape variety that is known for producing wines with a wide range of flavors, from dark and fruity to spicy and earthy.

The specific flavor profile of a Blaufränkisch wine will vary depending on the region where it is grown, the winemaker’s style, and the degree of oak aging.

Indeed, Blaufränkisch, very much like Riesling, is highly influenced by the soil in which it grows.

Indeed, depending on whether it is grown on the limestone of Leithaberg or the rich, deep soils of Mittelburgenland, it can produce wines with different styles. The former produces elegant wines, while the latter full-bodied, spicy wines.

However, there are some general flavor characteristics that are common to most Blaufränkisch wines.

Fruit

Blaufränkisch wines are known for their rich fruit flavors, which can range from dark and jammy to bright and red fruit-driven. The specific fruit profile of a Blaufränkisch wine will vary depending on the region where it is grown and the winemaker’s style.

However, some of the most common fruit flavors found in Blaufränkisch wine include black cherry, plum, blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, and cranberry.

Spice

Blaufränkisch wines are also known for their spicy flavors. The most common spices found in Blaufränkisch wine include black pepper, clove, nutmeg, and allspice.

The spicy flavors in Blaufränkisch wine are often attributed to the grape’s thick skin.

Acidity

Blaufränkisch wines typically have high acidity. This high acidity gives Blaufränkisch wines a refreshing finish and helps to balance the richness of the fruit flavors.

Tannins

Blaufränkisch wines also have moderate to high tannins. The tannins in Blaufränkisch wine give the wine structure and body. The tannins in Blaufränkisch wine can be soft and velvety, or they can be more firm and grippy.

The level of tannins in a Blaufränkisch wine will vary depending on the region where it is grown, the winemaker’s style, and the degree of oak aging.

Mix everything and you’ll get unicity

The high acidity and moderate to high tannins balance the richness of the fruit flavors, while the spicy notes add complexity and interest.

Blaufränkisch wines are also known for their ageability, as the tannins soften over time.

Examples of flavor profiles of Blaufränkisch from different regions

Here are some examples of how the interplay of fruit, spice, acidity, and tannins can manifest in different Blaufränkisch wines:

• Blaufränkisch from Burgenland, Austria: Blaufränkisch wines from Burgenland are typically full-bodied and complex, with flavors of dark fruit, spice, and earth. The high acidity and moderate to high tannins balance the richness of the fruit flavors.
• Blaufränkisch from Hungary: Blaufränkisch wines from Hungary are also full-bodied, but they are often more fruity than the wines from Burgenland. The high acidity and moderate to high tannins balance the richness of the fruit flavors.
• Blaufränkisch from Slovenia: Blaufränkisch wines from Slovenia are typically lighter-bodied and more elegant, with flavors of red fruit, spice, and earth. The high acidity and moderate tannins give the wine a refreshing finish.
• Blaufränkisch from Croatia: Blaufränkisch wines from Croatia are typically light-bodied and more fruity, with flavors of red fruit, spice, and earth. The high acidity and moderate tannins give the wine a refreshing finish.

Comparison with other well-known grape varieties

The best way to understand and remember something is always to compare it with something we know.

So a few posts for you to check :

Blaufränkisch and Pinot Noir

Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt

For me : Blaufränkisch is the perfect mix between Nebbiolo, Syrah and Pinot Noir!

Understanding Blaufränkisch Labels

Understanding Austrian wine labels

Austrian wine labels are regulated by the Austrian Wine Law, which is one of the strictest wine laws in the world. This law ensures that Austrian wines are of high quality and that consumers are able to make informed decisions about the wines they purchase.

Key information on Austrian wine labels

The following information is required to appear on all Austrian wine labels:

• Producer: The name and address of the producer
• Wine: The name of the wine
• Vintage: The year in which the grapes were harvested
• Alcohol content: The alcohol content of the wine by volume
• Regional classification: The regional classification of the wine, if applicable

Regional classifications in Austria

Austria has three regional classifications for wine (click here for more detailed information):

• DAC (Districtus Austriae Controllatus): DAC is the highest level of regional classification in Austria. DAC wines are made from grapes grown in a specific region and must meet certain quality standards.
• Qualitätswein (QW): Qualitätswein wines are made from grapes grown in Austria. They must meet certain quality standards, but they are not as strict as the standards for DAC wines.
• Landwein (LW): Landwein wines are made from grapes grown in a specific region of Austria. They do not have to meet the same quality standards as DAC or Qualitätswein wines.

Interpreting Blaufränkisch wine labels

When interpreting a Blaufränkisch wine label, it is important to pay attention to the following information:

• Regional classification: If the wine has a DAC classification, this means that it is made from grapes grown in a specific region and meets certain quality standards. DAC wines are generally considered to be of higher quality than Qualitätswein or Landwein wines.
• Vineyard designation: If the wine has a vineyard designation, this means that it is made from grapes grown in a specific vineyard. Vineyard designations can give you a good indication of the style of the wine. For example, Blaufränkisch wines from the Leithaberg region of Burgenland are typically full-bodied and complex, while Blaufränkisch wines from the Mittelburgenland region of Burgenland are typically more fruit-forward.
• Vintage: The vintage can give you a good indication of the quality of the wine. In general, warmer years produce more ripe and flavorful grapes, which can lead to better wines. However, it is important to note that vintage conditions can vary greatly from region to region.

Tips for reading and interpreting Blaufränkisch wine labels

Here are some tips for reading and interpreting Blaufränkisch wine labels:

• Look for wines that are made from 100% Blaufränkisch grapes. This will ensure that you are getting a wine that is true to the grape variety.
• If you are new to Blaufränkisch wine, I recommend starting with a lighter-bodied and more fruit-forward wine. As you become more familiar with the grape, you can experiment with more full-bodied and complex wines.
• If you are interested in learning more about a particular Blaufränkisch wine, do some research on the producer and the region where the wine is grown. This can help you to learn more about the style of the wine and what to expect when you taste it.

Food Pairing with Blaufränkisch

Blaufränkisch is a versatile wine that can be paired with a variety of foods.

When it comes to wine and food pairing, there are two rules : it must be good for YOU and if it grows together, it goes together!

Here are some practical tips for pairing Blaufränkisch with different foods, as well as some beginner-friendly pairings that will enhance the overall dining experience:

• Grilled meats: Blaufränkisch’s bold fruit flavors and firm tannins pair well with grilled meats, such as steak, lamb, and pork. Look for cuts with a bit of marbling, as this will help to balance the tannins in the wine.
• Roasted vegetables: Blaufränkisch’s acidity and fruit flavors complement roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, squash, and mushrooms. Try serving a roasted vegetable dish with a Blaufränkisch from the Burgenland region of Austria, as these wines are typically full-bodied and complex.
• Hearty stews: Blaufränkisch’s robust flavors pair well with hearty stews, such as goulash and beef bourguignon. Look for a Blaufränkisch with moderate to high tannins, as this will help to stand up to the richness of the stew.
• Charcuterie: Blaufränkisch’s acidity and spice notes pair well with charcuterie, such as salami, prosciutto, and chorizo. Try serving a charcuterie board with a Blaufränkisch from the Mittelburgenland region of Austria, as these wines are typically more fruit-forward and less tannic.
• Cheese: Blaufränkisch’s acidity and fruit flavors complement a variety of cheeses, including hard cheeses, such as cheddar and Parmesan, and soft cheeses, such as Brie and Camembert. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite pairings.

Here are some beginner-friendly Blaufränkisch food pairings:

• Grilled burgers with Blaufränkisch from Burgenland
• Roasted chicken with Blaufränkisch from Mittelburgenland
• Spaghetti and meatballs with Blaufränkisch from Slovenia
• Charcuterie board with Blaufränkisch from Hungary
• Cheese platter with Blaufränkisch from Croatia

When pairing Blaufränkisch with food, it is important to consider the following factors:

• The weight of the dish: Heavier dishes with more protein require a more full-bodied Blaufränkisch with moderate to high tannins. Lighter dishes with less protein can be paired with a lighter-bodied Blaufränkisch with lower tannins.
• The richness of the dish: Richer dishes with a lot of fat or cream require a Blaufränkisch with high acidity to help cut through the fat.
• The flavors of the dish: Blaufränkisch’s fruit flavors and spice notes pair well with a variety of foods, but it is important to find pairings that will complement the other flavors in the dish.

To give you even more examples and help you make your own pairings, check out this post for more information and leave a comment with YOUR ideas!

Affordable and Approachable Blaufränkisch Options

Blaufränkisch is a delicious and versatile grape variety that can produce wines in a range of styles, from light and fruity to full-bodied and complex.

However, Blaufränkisch wines can also be expensive, especially those from top producers in Austria. If you are new to Blaufränkisch wine or on a budget, there are a number of affordable and approachable options available.

Here are a few tips for finding affordable Blaufränkisch wines:

• Look for wines from outside of Austria. Blaufränkisch is also grown in Hungary, Slovenia, and Croatia. Wines from these countries are often more affordable than wines from Austria
• Choose wines from lesser-known regions. Within Austria, Blaufränkisch is grown in a number of different regions. Wines from lesser-known regions, such as Mittelburgenland and Südburgenland, are often more affordable than wines from more famous regions, such as Leithaberg.
• Shop at discount wine retailers. Discount wine retailers often have a good selection of affordable Blaufränkisch wines.
• Look for wines that are on sale. Many wine retailers offer sales on a regular basis. You can often find good deals on Blaufränkisch wines during these sales.

When navigating options on a budget, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:

• Read the wine labels carefully. Pay attention to the region, vintage, and producer. Wines from lesser-known regions and lesser-known producers are often more affordable.
• Ask for help from the wine shop staff. The staff at a good wine shop will be able to help you find affordable Blaufränkisch wines that match your taste.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many great Blaufränkisch wines available at a variety of price points. Don’t be afraid to try different wines to find ones that you like and that fit your budget.

If you want to have some specific producers name, you can check out this post which will lead you to producers per region and follow me on Instagram where I share my (wine) crushes!

And of course, if you’re looking for online shops, check out this post.

Blaufränkisch Tasting Tips

Here are a few tips for tasting Blaufränkisch wine:

Serve Blaufränkisch wine at slightly cooler temperatures than other red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. This will help to preserve the acidity and freshness of the wine.

By the way, when websites (or other) recommend you serving red wines at room temperature. Be careful with this notion. Indeed, this expression goes back to medieval times and “room temperature” at that time does not have the same meaning as today. “Room temperature” means 18°C.

If you want to know more about serving wine at the right temperature and get some special tips on how to cool it quickly, check out this post (I took Bordeaux as an example here, but you’ll get information on almost any wine. And if not, just leave a comment and I’ll be sure to come back to you!)

Swirl the wine in the glass before taking a sip. This will help to release the aromas of the wine.

Blaufränkisch wines typically have a complex aroma with notes of dark fruit, such as black cherry, plum, and blackberry. They may also have aromas of spice, such as black pepper and clove, and earth.

Take a small sip of the wine and let it roll around in your mouth. Pay attention to the different flavors and textures of the wine.

On the palate, Blaufränkisch wines are typically full-bodied and have moderate to high acidity. The acidity helps to balance the richness of the fruit flavors. Blaufränkisch wines also have moderate to high tannins, which give the wine structure and body.

Note the finish of the wine. How long does the flavor last? What lingering flavors do you taste?

Blaufränkisch wines typically have a long finish with lingering flavors of fruit, spice, and earth.

If you want additionnal tips, I wrote a post on how to taste wine like a pro with all my special recommendations!

Joining the Blaufränkisch Community

There are a number of online communities where you can learn more about Blaufränkisch wine and connect with other Blaufränkisch fans. Here are a few suggestions:

• Blaufränkisch Lovers Facebook Group
• Blaufränkisch subreddit
• Blaufränkisch Wine Forum

These online communities are a great place to ask questions, learn about new Blaufränkisch wines, and share your own experiences with Blaufränkisch wine.

Another great way to learn more about Blaufränkisch wine is to attend local tastings. Many wine shops and restaurants offer tastings that focus on Blaufränkisch wine. These tastings are a great opportunity to try a variety of Blaufränkisch wines from different regions and producers.

Here are a few resources for connecting with fellow Blaufränkisch enthusiasts:

• Wine By Mademoiselle (first and foremost I would even say!)
• Blaufränkisch Experience
• Blaufränkisch Society
• Blaufränkisch International

These resources offer a variety of ways to connect with fellow Blaufränkisch enthusiasts, such as online forums, social media groups, and in-person events.

Conclusion: A Beginner’s Guide to Blaufränkisch Wine

Blaufränkisch is a red grape variety that is known for producing wines with a wide range of flavors, from dark and fruity to spicy and earthy. The specific flavor profile of a Blaufränkisch wine will vary depending on the region where it is grown and the winemaker’s style.

However, all Blaufränkisch wines have a few things in common: they are typically full-bodied, have moderate to high acidity, and have moderate to high tannins.

Concerning it’s tasting profile, I’d say it’s a mix between northern Rhône Syrah, Nebbiolo from Italy’s Piedmont and Red Burgundy Pinot Noir.

Blaufränkisch wines are a great choice for beginners because they are versatile and can be paired with a variety of foods. Blaufränkisch wines are also relatively affordable, especially when compared to other red grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

If you are new to Blaufränkisch wine, here are a few tips:

• Start with a Blaufränkisch wine from a lesser-known region, such as Mittelburgenland or Südburgenland. These wines are often more affordable than wines from more famous regions, such as Leithaberg.
• Look for Blaufränkisch wines that are made by smaller, boutique producers. These producers often make wines that are more unique and expressive than wines from larger, commercial producers.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many great Blaufränkisch wines available at a variety of price points. Try different wines to find ones that you like and that fit your budget.

Once you have tried a few different Blaufränkisch wines, you can start to explore more complex and nuanced wines from different regions and producers. There is a whole world of Blaufränkisch wine out there waiting to be discovered!

Let me know about your discoveries in the comments and feel free to contact me on social media or email, by joining my newsletter, should you have any questions!

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