Today's wine find is an interesting one. It is an Austrian variety we do not see often on the shelves of Ontario wine stores, and it is one from an operation that will have you thinking you've been dropped on to the pages of a history book about wine. Our wine today is the Stift Klosterneuburg Zweigelt, 2022, and I think the first wine we've covered that is produced by a monastery.
What is Zweigelt
Zweigelt is Austria's most-planted red wine grape and was developed in 1922 by Dr. Friedrich "Fritz" Zweigelt through a crossing of the Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent varieties. Zweigelt's ability to thrive in Austria's cool climate contributes to its bright acidity and approachable tannins.
Beyond its popularity in Austria, Zweigelt is gaining recognition worldwide, with plantings emerging right here at home in Canada, where we see it used in wine blends.
About the Stift Klosterneuburg Zweigelt, 2022
I did not know what to expect while exploring this wine, and I admit that was because it came from a producer I did not know... and it was a monastery. My dubious entry was transformed into a pleasantly surprising tasting experience.
The Stift Klosterneuburg Zweigelt, 2022, is a gorgeous ruby colour. On the nose, that Zweigelt red fruit and pepper notes are apparent, but with a touch of violet. On the palate, the fruit gains layers and instead of being a solo party of red fruit, black currant and black plum come out to play. This Zweigelt gives a long finish of fruit and peppercorn that keeps you engaged.
This was truly a fantastic experience and for such a moderate investment.
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