St. Laurent, Blaufränkisch, and Zweigelt (also known as Rotberger) are the holy trinity of Austrian red wine. These three grape varieties — Zweigelt being a cross between St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch — share a lot of characteristics. They tend to be medium-bodied with grippy tannins, refreshing acidity, and bright berry notes. They can also offer savory qualities like notes of earth, pepper, and smoke that add complexity.
These grapes can also possess an incredible range of expressions, as both single-varietal bottlings or blends. Depending on region and winemaking style, they can be light-bodied, quaffable liter bottles or deep, age-worthy powerhouses that call for meats, cheeses, and charred vegetables.
This list focuses mostly on the wine zones of these varieties’ native soils, with some examples from neighboring countries like Slovenia, and even a few bottles that prove these grapes can thrive in the U.S. as well. From their home in Austria to the top of Michigan and the shores of the Finger Lakes, here are the 12 best Austrian reds for 2024.
Felix Austria R&B NV
Thank you, Austria, for being the land of liter bottles. A country that can give us both delicious, age-worthy wines and casual, easy-drinking wines, and not compromise on quality in either category, is a win-win. This blend of 85 percent Rotberger and 15 percent Blaufränkisch is ready for a big meal, good friends, and long conversations. It has a juicy nose with concentrated fruit and a hint of herbs. The palate is slightly rich
