Peter Wetzer is a producer in the Hungarian appellation of Sopron, right next to the border with Austria. Kékfrankos is the Hungarian name for blaufränkisch, and in fact, although Austria is better known for making wines from it, Hungary has more of it planted. The variety combines the silkiness and grace of pinot noir; the dark fruits, pepper, and floral notes of syrah; and the joyous lift and moderate alcohol of gamay. Wetzer's kékfrankos is a blend of several organically farmed 40-50-year-old vineyards, with loam, limestone, and mica-schist soils. Fermentation is in open vats and aging in used 500-liter Hungarian oak barrels. It’s bottled unfined and unfiltered, with a small addition of sulfur. 13% alcohol. Vivid dark fruits are etched with vibrant minerality and acidity. Drink it with mushrooms, tomatoes, sausages, or smoked meats. And if you like this wine, check out our recent newsletter article Why We Love: Blaufränkisch-Kékfrankos for more information and options.
