The Blaufränkisch
Grape
A red grape variety known for its deep color, high tannins, and acidity, originating from Central Europe, notably Austria and Hungary. Blaufränkisch produces complex wines with flavors of dark berries, cherries, and spices, often with an earthy minerality. It is capable of aging well, developing savory and tertiary notes over time.
Blaufränkisch
Grape History
Blaufränkisch, also known as Lemberger in Germany and Kékfrankos in Hungary, is a red wine grape variety that traces its origins back to Central Europe. Believed to have originated in what is now Austria, Blaufränkisch is a variety that has gained popularity in recent years for its distinctive flavors and ability to produce quality wines.
The history of Blaufränkisch can be traced back to the 18th century when it was first mentioned in records in Austria. It is thought to be a natural cross between Gouais Blanc and an unidentified red wine grape variety, giving it a unique genetic makeup that sets it apart from other varieties. Blaufränkisch is known for its thick-skinned grapes, which contribute to the wine's deep color and bold flavors.
Today, Blaufränkisch is primarily grown in Austria, particularly in the Burgenland region where it thrives in the warm, sunny climate. It is also grown in Hungary, Slovakia, and Germany, where it is known as Lemberger. The grape is well suited to cool climate conditions and thrives in vineyards with well-drained soils.
Blaufränkisch is known for producing wines that are medium to full-bodied with dark fruit flavors, hints of spice, and a distinct minerality. It is often likened to Cabernet Sauvignon in terms of its structure and aging potential. Blaufränkisch wines are versatile and can be enjoyed young or aged, with some premium examples capable of aging for decades.
Blaufränkisch is commonly used in single varietal wines, showcasing the grape's unique characteristics. It is also used in blends to add complexity and depth to the final wine. In Austria, Blaufränkisch is often blended with Zweigelt and St. Laurent to create rich, flavorful red wines.
The future looks bright for Blaufränkisch as it continues to gain recognition on the international stage. Wine critics and consumers are increasingly turning to this grape variety for its quality and value, making it a rising star in the world of red wine. With its versatility and ability to reflect terroir, Blaufränkisch has the potential to become a sought-after wine grape variety in the years to come.
Introduction
Hello, my name is Franklin Laurel - Welcome!
I started drinking wine in 1992 when I was in my early twenties and recently married. Like many other young Southern Californians, it started out with White Zinfandel. As we were a couple of young DINKs just beginning life together, and on a budget, our go-to-wine was Sutter Home White Zinfandel, which tasted a lot like wine coolers and probably cost at the time $2.49. If we really were going to splurge, we would step it up and buy Beringer White Zinfandel for $2.99. Those were the days....
After a little time, we decided to get fancy. We stepped up our game and bought some wonderful 2-Buck Chuck from Trader Joe's. The Charles Shaw (Trader Joe's Exclusive Label) wine, also known as 2-Buck-Chuck extended our pallet into Reds for only $1.99 a bottle. Over the years we continued to grow in our understanding of wine (finally ran into some good wine) and we slowly kept buying better and better bottles.
Our first wine club purchase was from Kenwood's Vineyards, in Kenwood, California located in Sonoma Valley, right next to the famous Napa Valley. I began to learn about tobacco leather, and earthiness, and lots of other strange terminology when tasting their signature Zinfandels (of the red variety). So that is how it all began.
Fast forward a couple decades, and we have been members of five different wine clubs, and now have a passion for California's red wines. My favorite by far is Cabernet Sauvignon, while my wife fancies a good Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot - but she also loves the smell of a wine barrel room, which is all about the notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.
As I come across great wine resources and useful information that I find in planning my own wine trips, I will share here for anyone that might stumble across my humble website.
Cheers! - Franklin Laurel