Blaufränkisch

Blaufränkisch is a dark-skinned red wine grape of Central Europe and the flagship red of Austria — known as Lemberger in Germany and the United States and as Kékfrankos in Hungary. It yields deeply coloured, medium- to full-bodied dry reds defined by dark-berry fruit, a savoury peppery spice and bright, firm acidity, with fine but noticeable tannin. At home in the warm hills of Burgenland, it ranges from light, unoaked and juicy to powerful, barrel-aged and age-worthy, and it is a backbone of Hungary's famous Egri Bikavér ("Bull's Blood") blend. Often likened to a cross between Syrah and Pinot Noir in spirit, it is prized for combining spice and structure with freshness and a strong sense of place.