Blaufrankisch a Grape to Watch
By Kerry Winslow
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2007 Carnuntum Blaufrankisch, Carnuntum Austria (by Niepoort)
In many circles, Blaufrankisch is being talked about as the next big thing in cool reds, though that can be the kiss of death, as we all know from Syrah’s hype a few years ago, but that said, it is a grape on the rise and this beautiful and spicy version is one to look for. This wine is made in partnership with the famed Port house Niepoort and is a personal love of Dirk Niepoort himself. Blaufrankisch has the elegance and soulful presence of Burgundy, but with a touch more grippy spice and briery notes. This wine from the tiny region of Carnuntum, though to be one of the best terroirs for the grape in Austria is a layered and pure fruited wine with touches of cayenne pepper and baked plum to go with a core of cherry and cranberry. This wine which is made without oak influence is tangy and brisk, but opens nicely and has silky texture with mineral and earthy tones, so make sure you explore it with food to get the best out of it, a prime rib or roast beef seem good choices. There are many styles of Blaufrankisch and many come with quality oak aging, and they can be as costly as a fine Burgundy or Bordeaux, and they are coming, but I featured this one because it is a great way to get an idea of the grape and it is of great quality for the price.
($28 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
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