Zweigelt is the most popular red wine varietal in all of Austria. It is named after Professor Fritz Zweigelt who in 1922 crossed St. Laurent with Blaufrankish. His hope was to create a more disease resistant variety able to thrive in the cooler climate terroir of Austria. Its vibrant color, wide variety of food pairings and ability to be served slightly chilled makes it a great wine to enjoy year-round. Zweigelt is our favorite red wine to sip throughout the long hot summer months.
The growing conditions in Selah, with the long springs and cool nights, are an excellent match for this varietal. The 2021 Zweigelt displays this fact quite well. This vintage was aged for 18 months in neutral French oak, giving a well-balanced profile with pure fruit expression. With gentle tannins and tangy acidity it bursts with fresh juicy dark fruits giving a pleasantly tart mouthfeel. The aromas display earthy black cherry laced with mint, while the palate carries these attributes into a cornucopia of dark fruits. Tart black cherry takes the forefront, layered with just-ripe blackberry, juicy black raspberry, chalk, and a dusting of cocoa powder. The presence of fruit and the juicy acidity make it quite versatile for pairing with an array of foods.
Try pairing with pork loin and roasted beets, Thai food, pasta with meat sauce or salmon ceasar salad.
Enjoy now through 2031
$28/Bottle
88 Cases produced
13.2% Alc. by volume
Rider Family Vineyard
Columbia Valley AVA
Farmed Organic