Weingut Franz Netzl, Cartuntum (Austria) Zweigelt 2019

 The Zweigelt grape variety is a cross between Blaufrankisch and Saint-Laurent that was created by Fritz Zweigelt in 1922.  In the hands of Franz and Christine Netzl it has a dark ruby color with aromas and flavors of black cherries and berries with hints of white pepper and caramel.  It has vibrant acidity and chewy tannins that can handle grilled steak, and has the concentration and structure to age.  According to the winery website Rubin, Carnuntrum “stands for a particularly area-typical wine that reflects the region’s character.  To get the qualification, each wine must pass the examination by a specific wine jury where the tasting panel tastes blind and it is done every year.  It is always made of the Zweigelt grape.”