Blaufränkisch: The Impact Of Climate On Flavor Profiles In Burgenland

As we’ve seen in the post on the impact of soil on the flavors of the wine, the climate plays a pivotal role too!

Climate is part of what French people call the terroir.

And let’s take Burgenland as an example (you know I love Blaufränkisch!).

Burgenland has warm summers and mild winters, which makes it the ideal region for Blaufränkisch to grow!

Let’s check out the impact of climate on flavor profiles of Blaufränkisch in Burgenland!

Burgenland has lots of different types of land and small-scale climates. This affects how Blaufränkisch grapes grow and what flavors they have. In the north, it’s cooler with a short time for growing, while in the south, it’s warmer and the growing season is longer. Grapes from higher up have more acidity, while those lower down have less acidity and taste more like ripe fruit. Also, which way the vineyards face matters: ones facing south make fruitier wines, and those facing north make wines with more acidity.

Burgenland’s Diverse Climate Zones

Burgenland is renowned for its diverse terroirs. This come from the large variety of soils but also from the its various micro climates.

Microclimates are distinct small areas within the larger region that have unique climatic conditions, influencing the temperature, sunlight exposure, and rainfall.

These factors significantly impact the ripening process of Blaufränkisch grapes and ultimately shape the flavor profile of the wines.

Let’s take temperature first!

To fully ripen, the Blaufränkisch grapes need cool nights and warm days. If the nights become too warm, the ripening process will accelerate. This means less acidity and flavor complexity.

Good things take time as you know, especially for those who cook. Sometimes you have to cook at low temperature to maximise the flavors. The same goes for the ripening of the grapes.

Low temperature to get full acidity (which we saw helps wine age, because it protects the wine) and flavor complexity (to maximize your drinking experience!)

However, the nights mustn’t be too cold either. This would mean the grapes wouldn’t ripen enough and the acidity would be way too high and you wouldn’t get any fruit flavour.

You know when you eat a fruit way too early? You taste the very high acidity? And you can’t taste any fruit? Well that would be the same for Blaufränkisch grapes and this wouldn’t result in a wine I would like to drink.

Luckily for us and our Blaufränkisch, Burgenland’s night temperature is just perfect!

Why? Because it has two very protectors : the Alps and the Lake Neusiedl.

The Alps protect the vineyards from the cold north winds while the lake contributes to moderating the climate, meaning avoiding large temperature fluctuations.

How do you feel when you go from a very hot environment to a very cold wine? Well the grapes would feel the same way…

Now, what about sunlight?

Why is sunlight important? Because it is vital for sugar production and flavor development.

However, excessive sunlight can scorch the grapes (just like you would get surnburnt). This means the grapes have elevated alcohol content and harsh tannins.

Based on location and elevation, the quantity of sunlight is different. South-facing slopes receive more sunlight compared to their north-facing counterparts. And higher-altitude vineyards bask in increased sunlight compared to those at lower elevations.

Last, rainfall patterns!

Grapes need water to ripen properly…but too much water dilutes the flavors. And the grapes become more susceptible to diseases.

Depending on where the vineyard is located, it doesn’t get the same amount of rainfall. For instance, northern vineyards typically receive more rainfall than southern vineyards.

Higher altitude vineyards tend to get more rainfall than those at lower altitudes.

So if you mix each different situation, you’ll understand that Burgenland has a lot of micro climates and this is why Blaufränkisch tastes different depending on where it’s grown!

Winemakers must choose their vineyards carefully to get the exact Blaufränkisch profile they’ll looking for.

The impact of the Warm Summers and Mild Winters

Warm Summers promotes ripeness and flavor development

Burgenland’s summers are typically warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 18 to 25°C (64 to 77°F).

These are ideal conditions for Blaufränkisch grapes.

They enable the grapes to accumulate sugars (which will turn into alcohol afterwards during fermentation), acids (great for wine conservation) and phenolic compounds (great for complex flavours).

The many hours of sunshine during the summer period promote photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy and sugars. These sugars accumulate in the grapes, leading to higher sugar levels.

Additionally, warm temperatures enhance the production of anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for the grape’s red color which contribute to its complex flavor profile.

Mild Winters preserve vine health and promotes dormancy

Burgenland’s winters are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 0 to 4°C (32 to 39°F). These conditions allow the vines to enter a period of dormancy which is crucial for vine health and resilience.

During dormancy, the vines suspend their vegetative growth and focus on storing energy reserves. Like you when you sleep!

This period of rest helps the vines recover from the stress of the growing season and prepares them for the next year’s budburst and flowering.

Mild winters also minimize the risk of frost damage, which can severely impact grape yields and quality.

Additionaly, temperatures not too cold allow the vines to store essential nutrients and carbohydrates. This ensures their vigor and productivity in the following growing season.

Impact of Burgenland’s Climate on Blaufränkisch Flavor Profiles

The combination of warm summers and mild winters in Burgenland allow the grapes to develop a balanced acidity, ripe fruit flavors, and complex aromatic profiles.

In Burgenland’s Blaufränkisch wines I often get aromas of cherry, plum, blackberry, black pepper, spice, and tobacco.

Well, now we know why : the warm summers contribute to the ripe fruit flavors, while the mild winters help preserve the grape’s natural acidity, preventing excessive sweetness and adding freshness to the wine!

The impact of Cool Nights and Diurnal Temperature Variation

Jus as we saw, the warm summers and mild winters are often said to be the sole factors of the region’s success in producing world-class Blaufränkisch wines.

But I don’t agree, there’s more to it.

I mean it would be too easy.

There are two other factors you should take into consideration : cool nights and diurnal temperature variation (meaning the difference in temperature between day and night)

Cool Nights help retain acidity

While warm days provide the ideal conditions for grape ripening, cool nights are equally important for preserving acidity in the grapes.

During the day, grapes undergo photosynthesis, producing sugars and other compounds that contribute to the wine’s flavor and structure.

However, it is during the cooler night temperatures that the grapes retain their natural acidity.

Acidity is a crucial component of wine balance, providing freshness, vibrancy, and structure.

In Blaufränkisch wines, well-preserved acidity complements the rich fruit flavors and complex aromas, preventing the wine from becoming overly sweet or heavy.

Cool nights help maintain this balance by slowing down the process of malolactic fermentation, the conversion of malic acid to softer lactic acid, which can reduce overall acidity.

Diurnal temperature variation enhances complexity

Diurnal temperature variation is the difference in temperature between day and night.

This fluctuation between warm days and cool nights creates a stress response in the grapevines. It stimulates the production of secondary metabolites, such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and terpenes.

Anthocyanins are responsible for the grape’s red color and contribute to the wine’s complex flavor profile, adding notes of spice, pepper, and leather.

Flavonoids contribute to the wine’s structure and stability.

Terpenes impart a range of aromatic compounds, such as floral, herbal, and fruit notes.

These secondary metabolites adds depth and complexity to Blaufränkisch wines.

So, the warm days and cool nights allow the grapes to develop a balance of ripe fruit flavors, vibrant acidity, and complex aromas,.

This results in a Blaufränkisch wine we know and love : a well-defined character and a long finish.

The impact of Harvest Timing and Climate

The Impact of Climate on Blaufränkisch Grape Ripeness

So, as you know understand, Burgenland’s climate is generally favorable for Blaufränkisch grape cultivation.

However, we are not in a perfect world, meaning everything stays the same from one year to another.

The region is also prone to fluctuations in temperature and precipitation, which can significantly impact the timing of grape ripening.

Warm summers can accelerate the ripening process, while cooler summers can prolong it.

Similarly, abundant rainfall can delay ripening, while drought conditions can lead to premature ripening.

Harvesting for Optimal Ripeness

Thus, harvest timing is crucial for achieving the desired balance of ripeness in Blaufränkisch grapes.

Too early, and the grapes may lack sugar content and flavor complexity.

Too late, and the grapes may overripen, losing acidity and becoming susceptible to botrytis, a fungal disease that can affect grape quality.

This is quite the challenge.

Blaufränkisch grapes typically reach optimal ripeness between late September and early October.

However, winemakers must carefully monitor the grapes’ sugar levels, acidity levels, and overall flavor profile to determine the precise moment for harvest.

Adapting to Climate Variations

As you know, not every year has the same weather.

In some years, we’ll have warmer-than-average temperatures and winemakers may need to harvest Blaufränkisch grapes earlier to prevent overripening.

Conversely, in cooler years, they may need to delay harvest to allow the grapes to fully ripen.

Winemakers also have a few tricks up their sleeves to manage the impact of climate variations on grape ripeness:

• Canopy management: Adjusting the vine canopy to optimize sunlight exposure and air circulation can help regulate grape ripening.
• Irrigation: Strategic irrigation can help mitigate the effects of drought stress and ensure uniform grape ripening.
• Cover cropping: Planting cover crops between vine rows can improve soil health and water retention, promoting balanced grape ripening.

The Art of Harvest Timing: A Winemaker’s Expertise

Ultimately, determining the optimal harvest timing for Blaufränkisch grapes is quite an art.

The winemaker must have a deep understanding of the grapes, the region’s climate, and he must rely on it’s own experience.

It is a decision that is made on a case-by-case basis.

To help them make this crucial decision, winemakers in Burgenland use a combination of traditional and modern methods :

• Tasting grapes is a traditional method that has been used by winemakers for centuries, and it can be an effective way to assess the sugar content and overall flavor profile of grapes. However, it is not a foolproof method, as it can be subjective and influenced by the winemaker’s personal preferences.
• Monitoring the grapes’ sugar levels: Winemakers use handheld refractometers to measure the sugar content of the grapes. The sugar content is a key indicator of ripeness, and it is typically measured several times in the weeks leading up to harvest.
• Assessing the grapes’ acidity: Acidity is another important factor in determining ripeness. Winemakers use pH meters to measure the acidity of the grapes. If the acidity is too high, the wine may be tart or sour. If the acidity is too low, the wine may be flabby or unbalanced.
• Evaluating the grapes’ color and flavor: Winemakers also evaluate the grapes’ color and flavor to assess their ripeness. Ripe Blaufränkisch grapes should have a deep red color and a complex flavor profile that includes notes of cherry, plum, spice, and pepper.
• Considering the weather forecast: Winemakers also consider the weather forecast when making their harvest decisions. If rain or cold weather is expected, they may harvest the grapes sooner than they would otherwise.
• Using technology: Some winemakers use advanced technology, such as remote sensing, to monitor the grapes’ ripeness. Remote sensing can provide winemakers with detailed information about the grapes’ sugar levels, acidity, and color, which can help them make more informed harvest decisions.

So remember when you feel stressed about making a hard decision : at least you’re not the one deciding when to harvest your favourite grape!

Climate and Blaufränkisch Terroir Expression

As you can see, Burgenland is an extensive wine region and is Austria’s most diverse in terms of terroir.

This explains the many flavor profiles of Blaufränkisch you can find within Burgenland.

A quick reminder concerning the soils

Burgenland features limestone-rich soils, clay soils and even sand soils.

The limestone soils give minerality and acidity to the wines.

Clay soils gives body to the wines. Blaufränkisch grown on clay soils tend to be fuller-bodied.

Sand soils produce lighter-bodied wines with vibrant red fruit flavors.

>> Want to know why? Check out this post! <<

A summary concerning the climate

The northern part of Burgenland has cooler temperatures and a shorter growing season, while the south enjoys warmth and an extended growing season.

Vineyards planted on higher altitudes give birth to wines with heightened acidity, while those on lower altitudes give birth to wines with lower acidity and richer, riper fruit flavors.

Their exposure plays a pivotal role too : southern exposed vineyards produce wines that are more fruit-forward, while those with a northern exposure produce wines with more acidic characteristics.

Overview of the different regions of Burgenland and their expression depending on the terroir impact

With all that in mind, let’s check out what does it really mean and the impact on the wines.

Located in the northern part of Burgenland, the Leithaberg region has limestone-rich soils and a cool climate,.

Thus, the ripening of the grapes is gradual. The wine will develop dark fruit, spice and minerality.

Located in the eastern part of Burgenland, the Neusiedlersee region has sandy soils and a moderate climate.

Thus, the grapes in this region ripen early. The wines will have red fruit flavors and be lighter-bodied. They tend to have a more elegant profile with spice and earth flavors.

Located in the central region of Burgenland, Mittelburgenland has clay-rich soils and warm climate.

There, the grapes here achieve full ripeness, leading to the creation of full-bodied wines with notes of dark fruit, spice, and earth.

Located in the southern part of Burgenland, the Eisenberg region has volcanic soils and a cool climate.

Thus, the grapes will ripen slowly producing wines that will be elegant, light-bodied with red fruit and minerality flavors.

Located in the southern reaches of Burgenland, the Rosalia region has gneiss soils and a warm climate.

There, grapes in this area ripen fully. This gives birth to full-bodied wines with rich flavors of dark fruit, spice, and minerality.

Climate Challenges and Adaptations

Challenges of Burgenland’s Climate for Blaufränkisch Production

Austria is no exception to global warming unfortunately.

Burgenland’s climate, while generally favorable for grape cultivation, can be subject to extremes in temperature, ranging from hot, dry summers to cold winters with potential for frost damage.

Moreover, these fluctuations are coupled with an increasing aridity and unpredictable rainfall.

You can guess that this poses a significant challenge for Blaufränkisch production.

Why?

Hot summers can lead to heat stress in the vines, affecting grape ripening and potentially damaging the vines themselves.

Additionally, cold winters can bring frost damage, particularly to early-budding varieties like Blaufränkisch.

Burgenland’s relatively arid climate can lead to water stress for the vines, impacting grape development and overall yields.

Irrigation can be employed to supplement rainfall, but the winemaker has to be very careful in order to avoid overwatering. Just for this reason, I clearly couldn’t be a winemaker. Too many plants have died of over watering at home…

Last, unpredictable rainfall patterns. Now do I really need to explain where the issue is?

Just in case : sporadic heavy downpours, especially during extended dry periods, dispruts irrigation schedules, which disrupts vineyard management. It’s a bit like our overwatering issue.

Innovative Adaptations for Climate Resilience

So, how do Burgenland’s winemakers deal with all these issues?

Well, these winemakers have demonstrated remarkable resilience and innovation in adapting to these challenges.

Let me share a few of their techniques :

1) Cover cropping, the practice of planting a diverse mix of plant species between vine rows, has become increasingly popular among Burgenland winemakers.

Cover crops help regulate soil moisture, suppress weeds, and promote soil biodiversity, contributing to healthier vines and improved grape quality.

2) Precision viticulture techniques, such as targeted irrigation and canopy management, allow winemakers to tailor vine care to specific microclimates and individual vine needs.

This approach optimizes grape ripening and minimizes the impact of climate-related stresses.

3) Grape Variety Selection and Clonal Diversity : Burgenland winemakers are exploring the use of different Blaufränkisch clones, each with its own unique characteristics and adaptability to specific climatic conditions.

This clonal diversity allows for a more nuanced approach to grape selection, ensuring the continued production of high-quality Blaufränkisch wines under evolving climatic conditions.

“Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Iconic Wine Regions” by Anthony Ortiz-Chiavetta, published in Vineyard & Winery Management magazine in 2022, states that “Burgenland winemakers are increasingly experimenting with different Blaufränkisch clones to find those that are more resilient to heat stress and drought.”

Sustainable Practices and Long-Term Planning

Winemakers are increasingly embracing sustainable practices, such as organic and biodynamic viticulture, to promote soil health, biodiversity, and resilience to climate change.

These practices not only enhance the quality of Blaufränkisch wines but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of Burgenland’s vineyards.

International Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

Winemakers in Burgenland are actively participating in international research initiatives and knowledge-sharing platforms, collaborating with experts and peers worldwide to develop innovative strategies for adapting to climate change.

This exchange of expertise is crucial for ensuring the continued success of Blaufränkisch wine production in the face of a changing climate.

“Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Iconic Wine Regions” by Anthony Ortiz-Chiavetta, published in Vineyard & Winery Management magazine in 2022, states that “Burgenland winemakers are collaborating with experts from around the world to develop new grape varieties and viticultural practices that are more resilient to climate change.“

Here are some specific examples of international research initiatives and knowledge-sharing platforms that Burgenland winemakers are involved in:

• The International Grapevine Trunk Diseases Research Network (IGTD Network): This network brings together scientists and researchers from around the world to study grapevine trunk diseases, which are becoming more prevalent due to climate change.
• The Interreg Adapt2Climate project: This project aims to develop and implement new strategies for adapting agriculture to climate change, with a focus on the wine industry.
• The European Phenology Network (EPN): This network collects data on grapevine phenology, such as budburst, flowering, and harvest dates, in order to better understand the impact of climate change on the grapevine growing cycle.

In addition to these specific initiatives, Burgenland winemakers are also actively participating in international conferences and workshops on climate change adaptation.

For example, in 2022, the Austrian Wine Academy hosted a conference on “Climate Change and the Future of Austrian Wine,” which featured presentations from experts from around the world on a variety of topics related to climate change adaptation in the wine industry.

Conclusion: Blaufränkisch: The impact of climate on flavor profiles in Burgenland

So, all in all, Burgenland has diverse terroirs and microclimates. This influences the ripening process and flavor profile Blaufränkisch grapes.

The northern region of Burgenland experiences cooler temperatures and a briefer growing season, whereas the southern area enjoys warmer conditions and an elongated growing period.

Wines from vineyards situated at higher elevations have higher acidity acidity, whereas those at lower elevations lower acidity and more pronounced, ripe fruit notes.

Additionally, the orientation of the vineyards is crucial; southern-facing vineyards tend to produce wines with a greater emphasis on fruitiness, whereas those facing north typically result in wines with heightened acidic qualities.

However, the climate challenges, such as temperature extremes and erratic rainfall, necessitate innovative adaptations by Burgenland’s winemakers.

Sustainable practices, precision viticulture, and international collaborations are key strategies to address the impacts of climate change.

Another solution is the use of specific Blaufränkisch clones reflects the region’s commitment to resilience and quality in the face of evolving climatic conditions.

Anyway, now we got to know Blaufränkisch very well, here comes the fun part : the tasting!

Join me on one of my tastings in my home town or take part in an exclusive wine tasting in the heart of Vienna!

Or, last but not least, just enjoy your glass (or bottle) at home. Check out my post on where to buy Austrian wine online to get your wine at the best price!