Zweigelt
Or "Blauer Zweigelt" is a red varietal that originally comes from Austria. A full bodied wine with light spice, firm tannins and light acidity. This hybrid is a 20th century cross of Blaufränkisch and St. Laurent.
Zweigelt. Austria's most widely planted red grape, sometimes seen as a rosé. The red is fun, charming and a little peppery.
This article was adapted from a Tastings column by Dorothy J. Gaiter and John Brecher published in May 2009.
Zweigelt
Origin: (St. Laurent x Lemberger). The variety was cultivated in Klosterneuburg in 1922. In the second half of the 1960s, it was brought to Moravia. Today, it covers 3,7 % of the vineyard areas in the Czech Republic.
ZWEIGELT: Recent crossing of St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch grapes finding favor in Austria and Canada. Has capability for creating good red wines with some aging ability. Reportedly is among the most cold-hardy vinifera varieties.
In the 1960s, following agricultural reforms, Médoc and Kadarka were largely replaced by the easy to tend Zweigelt, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
Moreover, the region produces red wines, in particular with Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt and St. Laurent grapes, a cross of Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt.
Recently (2002) had its parentage revised after DNA analysis. Now reported to be derived from a "Cross 48" by Dr. Fritz Zweigelt (ie: Portuguiser Grauer x Frühroter Veltliner). No other details as yet other than it is recommended for winegrape use.
There are red grapes too, regional specialties such as Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch, as well as Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
 See also: Grape, Wine, Pinot, Red, White
  
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