Paul Achs, Burgenland (Austria) Blaufränkisch 2013

Red wines from Austria’s Burgenland region are poised to make a big push toward prominence in export markets, and if that seems implausible to you…remember that you heard it here first.  Blaufränkisch is probably the best red variety that the nation has to offer, though St. Laurent is superb (but difficult to grow and thus likely not the tip-of-the-spear red for Austria).  Zweigelt, a cross between Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent, is extremely easy to enjoy, and though it doesn’t have the elegance of St. Laurent nor the aging potential of Blaufränkisch, try it whenever you have a chance.  This fine rendering of Blaufränkisch shows a terrific balance of fruity and savory notes, with bright acidity but also plenty of bass to go along with all that treble.  Delicious now, this will likely improve for another five years at a minimum.  Best with poultry or white meats like pork or veal, this could also work well with pasta and all sorts of other dishes appropriate for a light / medium red.