Judith Beck Ink 2023

Ink is the easy drinking red from Judith Beck in Burgenland, Austria, made from Zweigelt and Saint Laurent. The estate is farmed biodynamically, and the wine is natural and vegan, made with minimal intervention. Burgenland, near the shallow Lake Neusiedl, has a warm Pannonian climate tempered by the water, which moderates temperature and lengthens the growing season so the grapes ripen gently and keep their fresh acidity. The soils mix gravel, loam and limestone, which suits these two cool toned Austrian grapes. Zweigelt brings juicy cherry fruit and a peppery lift, while Saint Laurent adds a softer, Pinot like red fruit and a floral edge. The wine spends eight months in oak barrels, enough to round the texture without adding obvious wood. At 12 per cent it is built for relaxed drinking. The colour is bright, vivid ruby. The nose is fresh, with red cherry, plum, a hint of kirsch, violet and dried herbs. The palate is light and juicy, with crisp acidity, supple tannin and a clean, fruity finish. Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 16 degrees. It is happy with charcuterie, roast chicken and grilled salmon.