Johannes Zillinger Parcellaire Rouge 2021

Johannes Zillinger farms in Lower Austria, on an estate established in 1673 and worked biodynamically for more than forty years. Parcellaire Rouge blends Cabernet Franc and Syrah, two cooler-climate reds that hold their freshness and peppery, herbal character in this northern setting. The biodynamic farming, which cultivates herbs and keeps animals as part of a living system, aims to let each plot express its own soil and exposure. The cooler continental climate and wide difference between warm days and cold nights slow ripening, fixing bright acidity and firm, fine tannins rather than heavy, jammy fruit. The wine is aged in barrel, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens the tannins and adds a savoury depth without dominating the fruit. The colour is a deep, bright cherry red. The nose leads with raspberry and red currant from the Cabernet Franc over black pepper from the Syrah, with dried herbs, tobacco and a clear earthy note. The palate is structured and savoury, with firm acidity and tannin and a long, herbal finish. Serve at around 16 to 17 degrees Celsius. It suits roast beef, game and mushroom dishes.