HEINRICH Burgenland Zweigelt 2008 Prodcuer Gernot Heinrich has 60 hectares of vines in Gols, Burgenland, which is Austria.s easternmost province, lying only a few kilometres from the Hungarian border. After graduating in viticulture from Klosterneuberg, Gernot.s vinous travels in Bordeaux, Spain, California and Italy convinced him that his best approach in this continental climate was to use indigenous grapes such as Blaufränkisch, St Laurent and Zweigelt to make the highest quality, most characteristic wines he could. Vineyards In the Wagram area, the hot, dry climate with sandy, clay soils on south-facing vineyards favour the production of ripe, opulent reds. A fresh, northeasterly wind ensures the relatively high rainfall in the area does not cause the grapes to rot. The vineyards are located 140m above sea level, with Pinot Noir, St Laurent and Syrah on the higher slopes and Blaufrankisch and Zweigelt on the heavier soils lower down. The vines for this wine are between 10 and 30 years old, located at various optimum sites of the Heidelboden between the Parndorfer Platte and Lake Neusiedl (the Neusiedlersee). Vinification Harvested by hand from the beginning to mid September 2008. All movement of must and wine is carried out using gravity. Maceration lasted 2-3 weeks and fermentation took place in temperature controlled stainless steel vats at 28-32°C. Malolactic fermentation occurred in stainless steel vats. The wine aged in a mix of large oak vats and 2nd use barriques until bottling in June 2008. Tasting Notes Deep ruby-garnet colour, with a soft violet tints. Perfumes of fresh plum on the nose, with notes of fine herbs and spices and a hint of orange zest. The palate is juicy with fine red berry fruit tones that deliver good sweetness and a pleasant acidity structure. Very nicely woven, with medium length; already very approachable and offering uncomplicated drinking pleasure. Find this wine at www.winestore.co.uk Price: £105.46 (Including VAT at 20%)