Umathum - Burgenland Zweigelt 2016
Pairing Suggestions
Umathum - Burgenland Zweigelt 2016 (87 TSW)
The Umathum wine estate is located in the village of Frauenkirchen (Austria), to the east of Lake Neusiedlersee, near the Hungarian border. Josef Umathum has 50 hectares of vineyards, half of which are in Frauenkirchen and the other half in Neusiedl. 75% of its vineyards are planted with red grapes.
He gives special importance to the native Austrian grape varieties. Zweigelt is its main grape variety with more than 30%, followed by St. laurent (20%) and blaufränkisch (20%). In addition, he has planted a few regional white grape varieties.
Josef Umathum is a passionate winemaker who attaches great importance to organic viticulture. Since the 1970s this estate has been increasing the organic variety of plants in the vineyard and Josef has stopped using herbicides and insecticides. Umathum grows according to Demeter's biodynamic guidelines.
On the banks of the Neusiedlersee you will find a rich variety of slate, limestone, clay and / or pebble soils. Important are Ried Hallebühl, Vom Stein and Unter den Terrassen. Joseph is one of the few who only sells his quality red wines after three years of storage in his own cellar.
About this wine:
Zweigelt from 15 to 36 year old vines located from Frauenkirchen and the surrounding area, Burgenland with a warm mineral-rich soil (including quartz and iron) and a gravel and sand substrate, with good water permeability.
Fermentation in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks using naturally present regional yeasts. followed by malolactic fermentation in large wooden barrels.
My tasting notes:
In the glass a bright ruby red color with a purple rim.
On the medium nose aromas of ripe cherries, raspberries and blackberries with hints of chocolate, black pepper, coffee, herbs and earthy notes.
On the palate dry, medium bodied with medium acidity and soft tannins. Flavours are a recall of the nose with coffee and pepper in the finish.