Claus Preisinger Blaufränkisch Limestone Organic 2022

Austrian wines are synonymous with tradition and quality. The Burgenland region is particularly noteworthy. Here, Pannonian influences blend with unique soils, giving rise to red wines with character and depth. The "Claus Preisinger Blaufränkisch Kalkstein Bio 2022" is a prime example. This wine embodies the philosophy of the winery, emphasizing minimalism and natural practices in every step of the process. The 2022 vintage promises a special balance, thanks to warm summers and a mild autumn that favoured grape ripening. The result is a dry red wine that reflects the aromas of the region, presenting a herbaceous-fresh, juicy, and mineral profile. It's a wine that delights both purists and connoisseurs.

Character and Enjoyment

Blaufränkisch, also known as Lemberger (a local synonym), is an ancient grape variety, particularly prevalent in the Burgenland. The vine thrives in warm, sunny conditions but also benefits from cooler soils. Limestone-rich soils are ideal, as they impart a distinctive minerality to the wine. The "Claus Preisinger Blaufränkisch Kalkstein Bio 2022" clearly showcases this characteristic. On the palate, it reveals a lean texture. The juicy acidity and fine tannins harmonize perfectly. A hint of flint enhances the mineral character. Despite its lightness, the wine is vibrant, tingling on the tongue, and leaving a long finish. Notes of cherry compote and blackberry mingle with earthy undertones, culminating in a subtle chocolate note.

This red wine from the Burgenland is more than just a beverage; it's an expression of a unique terroir. The combination of grape variety, soil, and climate creates a distinctive flavour profile. The "Claus Preisinger Blaufränkisch Kalkstein Bio 2022" pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats, especially richer cuts of beef, where it can fully express its aromas. It also complements herb-infused dishes, enhancing the wine's savoury notes. Enjoy this Lemberger/Blaufränkisch on its own, as it's an ideal companion for relaxed moments. The 750ml bottle contains a wine that promises great enjoyment.

The Winemaker: Claus Preisinger

Claus Preisinger is a pioneer of biodynamic winemaking. His winery is located in Gols, Burgenland. He follows a minimalist approach, bottling his wines without fining or filtering. As a member of the "Pannobile" association, he is committed to the highest quality standards. The Bio-certification (AT-BIO-402) confirms the sustainable cultivation practices. Biodynamic principles are also followed.

The winery's philosophy is reflected in the winemaking process. Natural wines are made differently from conventional wines. Often, Claus Preisinger avoids the use of sulphur. This can lead to cloudiness and sediment. The aroma and taste may differ noticeably. A characteristic feature of his wines is a herbaceous-fresh note. He consciously avoids unnecessary embellishments. The "Claus Preisinger Blaufränkisch Kalkstein Bio 2022" is an accessible introduction to his wine world, showcasing the winemaker's attention to detail, natural approach, and respect for the terroir.

The Burgenland Terroir

The Burgenland is Austria's second-largest wine-growing region, covering 11,538 hectares. The climate is Pannonian, characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and dry winds. The landscape is diverse, with rolling hills and flat plains. Vineyards stretch to the shores of Lake Neusiedl.

This wine originates from the northwestern part of Lake Neusiedl. The soils are geologically diverse. The "Seewinkel" region is characterized by sandy gravel, while the western side of the lake features limestone-rich soils. The microclimate of the lake plays a crucial role, ensuring optimal grape ripening. The introduction of DAC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) areas has improved quality. Leithaberg DAC signifies mineral-driven white wines and elegant red wines. Burgenland combines tradition with innovation, offering winemakers ideal conditions. International recognition confirms the high quality of the wines.

Soil Composition

Limestone, gravel, pebbles, and sand define the terroir. This soil mixture is crucial for the wine's style. Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed of carbonates, rich in calcium and magnesium. It efficiently retains water and neutralizes acidity, creating a cool soil temperature. This results in elegant, complex wines with lively acidity. Gravel consists of siliceous earth, promoting good water drainage. The vines need to develop deep roots, which enhances minerality. Sand is warm and airy, offering good drainage but retaining little water. In combination with limestone, it creates fragrant and structured wines.

Maturation and Vinification

The grapes for the "Claus Preisinger Blaufränkisch Kalkstein Bio 2022" are partially destemmed before undergoing spontaneous fermentation. Stainless steel tanks or large wooden fermentation vessels are used. The wine is matured in large, neutral oak barrels, and also in stainless steel tanks. An eight-month lees contact enhances the development of texture. A buttery texture emerges, reminiscent of a juicy cherry-nut cake, while maintaining freshness. Diam corks ensure a secure closure and consistent maturation conditions.

Austrian Qualitätswein is a protected designation. Sensory defects are not permitted, and varietal aromas must be discernible. The maximum yield per hectare is limited to 9,000 kg/ha. Only approved grape varieties are allowed. Bio-certification and membership in Pannobile underscore the commitment to quality. Quality goes beyond legal minimum requirements.

Presentation

The label is minimalist in design, featuring a clean white background and dark lettering. The name "Claus Preisinger" is elegantly highlighted in a handwritten font. Technical details are presented in a clear, sans-serif typeface. The grape variety, terroir, bio-certification, and vintage are clearly legible. The bottle has a classic shape, with a slender neck and a broad base, typical of Austrian wines. The reduced colour palette and simple typography convey a modern impression, focusing on the wine's natural origin and quality. The winemaker's signature and the factual presentation create a balance between tradition and contemporary design.

Conclusion

The "Claus Preisinger Blaufränkisch Kalkstein Bio 2022" is a wine with character, embodying the winery's philosophy of minimalism, natural practices, and terroir. The Burgenland offers ideal conditions for cultivating Blaufränkisch. The limestone soils impart minerality to the wine, while maturation in oak barrels and stainless steel tanks ensures balance. It pairs perfectly with roasted meats and beef. With a price of €14, it offers excellent value for money. This wine is sure to delight connoisseurs and invite discovery.