Blaufränkisch

Grape variety	Blaufränkisch
Grape colour	Red grape
Synonyms	Lemberger, Kékfrankos, Franconia, Modra Frankinja, Frankovka
History	Blaufränkisch, a grape native to Central Europe, has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. It is believed to have originated in Austria, and from there, it spread to other parts of Europe, including Hungary, Germany, and Slovenia. Despite its age, the grape remained relatively unknown until the late 20th century, when it began to gain recognition for its ability to produce high-quality wines with unique characteristics.
Ampelographic features	Blaufränkisch is a late-ripening grape that thrives in warm climates with plenty of sunshine. The vines are vigorous and produce medium-sized clusters of small, blue-black berries. The leaves are medium-sized, with five lobes, and the bunches are cylindrical and slightly compacted. The grape is resistant to many diseases, but it is susceptible to botrytis bunch rot and powdery mildew, which can affect the quality of the harvest if not properly managed.
Characteristics of the wine	Blaufränkisch wines are typically medium to full-bodied with high acidity and moderate to high tannins. They are known for their deep ruby color and aromas of dark fruit, such as blackberries and cherries, as well as spicy notes of pepper and sometimes a hint of earthiness. These wines can be enjoyed young, but they also have excellent aging potential, developing more complex flavors and aromas over time.