Heinrich Pannobile 2021

Gernot and Heike Heinrich founded their Burgenland winery in 1990 with the aim of making wines that reflect the region, working organically and biodynamically with native grapes. Pannobile blends Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch grown on the slopes of the Leitha hills, near the broad, shallow Lake Neusiedl that moderates the climate of this warm corner of eastern Austria. The limestone and gravel soils of the Leitha range give the wine its mineral edge and freshness, while the lake tempers the heat and extends ripening. The grapes are farmed without synthetic treatments and vinified with little intervention, using native yeasts to keep the expression of site clear. Ageing in wood rounds the tannins through slow oxygen exchange while keeping the fruit to the fore. The colour is bright ruby. The nose shows red cherry and redcurrant over black pepper, dried herbs and a savoury, earthy undertone from the Blaufränkisch. The palate is medium-bodied and fresh, the tannins firm but fine, the red fruit cut by a peppery, mineral lift into a clean finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, lightly cool. It suits roast duck, grilled pork and mushroom dishes.