Every other month, our 5 to Try series showcases five examples of stellar wines from varying wine styles, grapes, and Germany’s 13 winegrowing regions. This month, we’re highlighting Lemberger!
When it comes to German red wines, Lemberger is one of the lesser-known varieties, but it’s enjoyed increasing popularity in recent years as evidenced by its growing vineyard area. Making up about 1.9% of Germany’s wine growing area, it holds a strong presence in Württemberg, one of Germany’s premier red wine regions. In fact, over 91% of Germany’s Lemberger vines are in Württemberg, where it makes up almost 16% of the region’s vineyard area. The late-ripening grape thrives in the mild, warmer temperatures and minimal wind in the region, thanks to protection from the Black Forest and Swabian Jura. Outside of Germany, it’s primarily grown in Austria (where it’s known as Blaufränkisch) and Hungary (where it’s called Kékfrankos), with small quantities elsewhere.
A versatile grape, Lemberger can produce wines ranging from light and fruity to complex and rich in tannins. These wines typically have an intense, dark color, medium body, fruit-forward flavors, and aromas of blackberry, cherry, plum currant, or vegetal notes such as green bell pepper. It can also play a role in blends, most often as a complement to delicate, low-tannin Trollinger.
Try these 5 Württemberg wines for an introduction to the loveliness of Lemberger!
1. Graf Neipperg Lemberger Trocken, Württemberg
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2. Roterfaden Lemberger, Württemberg
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3. Drautz-Able Lemberger Gutswein, Württemberg
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4. Aldinger Lemberger Gutswein Trocken, Württemberg
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5. Andi Knauss ‘Pure’ Red, Württemberg
(A blend of Lemberger and Zweigelt; Some vintages also contain Spätburgunder)
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Plan on trying these wines? Don’t forget to tag and follow @GermanWineUSA!
