Blaufränkisch
A high-acid, spicy Austrian black grape with dark cherry and medium to firm tannin, also grown as Kékfrankos in Hungary and Lemberger in Germany.
At a glance
- Dark cherry
- High acidity
- Peppery spice
Recognize it
High acidity with medium to firm tannin in a medium body. Sour cherry and dark berries lead, with peppery or smoky spice.
Detail
Blaufränkisch is called Kékfrankos in Hungary and Lemberger in Germany and the United States. It combines high acidity and medium to firm tannin with dark cherry and peppery spice. It is also one parent of Zweigelt, crossed with St. Laurent in Austria.
Similar grapes
Syrah
Similar peppery spice and medium to firm tannin.
Difference Syrah is usually fuller and riper; Blaufränkisch is tarter and more sour-cherry driven.
Sangiovese
Similar high acidity and savory red-fruit character.
Difference Sangiovese leans toward sour cherry and dried herb; Blaufränkisch usually shows darker fruit and peppery spice.