Zweigelt
Austria's most planted red: a juicy, cherry-fruited cross of Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent. Growers in the Finger Lakes, Michigan and Pennsylvania are taking it up.
Zweigelt is Austria's most widely planted red grape. Dr. Fritz Zweigelt bred it in 1922 at the Klosterneuburg research institute, crossing St. Laurent with Blaufränkisch (known in the U.S. as Lemberger). It ripens earlier than its parents and handles cold well for a European grape. That has made it a natural fit for cool-climate American wineries looking for a fruity, easy-drinking red.
What It Tastes Like
Zweigelt is juicy and cherry-driven, with sour cherry, raspberry and red plum, a dash of black pepper, soft tannins and fresh acidity. Think of it as somewhere between Gamay and a lighter Lemberger. It's best served slightly cool, and it makes a lovely rosé.
Where It Grows
In the U.S. you'll find Zweigelt in New York's Finger Lakes, northern Michigan, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Washington. Plantings are small but growing, often at wineries that also grow Grüner Veltliner and Blaufränkisch.
What to Look For
- Dry Zweigelt, served cool, as an everyday red.
- Zweigelt rosé, crisp and berry-driven.
- Sparkling Zweigelt and red blends with Blaufränkisch.
Where to Find Zweigelt
Wine regions on American Winery Guide where Zweigelt is grown or poured: