Zweigelt

The Story

Zweigelt was created in 1922 by Dr. Fritz Zweigelt (crossing Blaufränkisch x St. Laurent). Later, Dr. Zweigelt joined the Nazi Party. After WWII, Austria considered renaming the grape. They didn't. It's still called Zweigelt.

Insider Story

Dr. Fritz Zweigelt was Austria's top viticulturist in the 1920s. He created Zweigelt (and Blauburger) via crossbreeding. His work was brilliant—Zweigelt became Austria's most-planted red grape (14% of vineyard area).

But in 1938, Dr. Zweigelt joined the Nazi Party. He wasn't just a member—he actively collaborated, denounced colleagues, and supported Aryanization policies. After WWII, he was investigated but never prosecuted. He continued working in viticulture until his death in 1964.

In the 1990s-2000s, historians uncovered his Nazi past. Austrian wine organizations debated renaming Zweigelt to 'Rotburger' (Red Burgundy). But producers resisted—Zweigelt was internationally recognized. Changing the name would hurt sales. So it's still Zweigelt. The controversy lingers.

Technical Deep Dive

Zweigelt (Blaufränkisch x St. Laurent) combines Blaufränkisch's structure with St. Laurent's fruit. Tannins: medium (2,000-2,500 mg/L). Acidity: moderate (5-6 g/L). Alcohol: 12.5-14% ABV.

Two styles: Light & fruity (drink young, $10-15) and Serious (oak-aged, single vineyards, $25-50). The serious style uses low yields, old oak, and extended aging.

Industry Secrets

Most Zweigelt is light, fruity, and simple ($10-15). The good stuff is labeled 'Reserve' or comes from single vineyards. Look for Burgenland (especially Neusiedlersee) for quality.

More red grapes

• Ag Kisi
• Agiorgitiko
• Aglianico
• Aladasturi
• Albilla