Funkstille Zweigelt, Niederosterreich, Austria

Funkstille Zweigelt. Zweigelt grapes from selected south facing vineyards, perfectly exposed to the sun, produce a bright, ripe and abundant red wine. Great care and attention is taken with canopy management in order to balance the leaf density of the vines and ensure good air-flow and healthy grapes. Harvest takes place in mid-October.

Grapes are vinified at their energy neutral winery; cold-soaked for 5 days after which fermentation starts slowly. Twice-daily pump-overs are carried out for the first 10 days and then the wine is left on the skins for a further 5 days with just one pump-over per day. Malo-lactic fermentation happens simultaneously with the main ferment. The finished wine then goes into old wooden 5,000-8,000 litre barrels, with 10% going into 2-3 year old barriques. The components are then blended prior to bottling.

Abundant red cherry, plum and vibrant berry fruits combine in this joyful, bright and incredibly juicy red; medium-bodied with beautifully ripe and light tannins and touch of spice on the finish.

This juicy wine works well with roasted duck and pork as well as around the barbecue.