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The Blauer Wildbacher is a relative of Blaufränkisch and originates from a Gouais Blanc seedling. Despite the very small acreage of plantings in its native Weststeiermark, the Wildbacher is much better known as the Schilcher rosé wine.
Origin
Austria, Wildbach, Steiermark
Parentage
Natural seedling from the Heunisch variety
Vineyard area
521.66 ha; 1.2%
Parentage: This autochthonous grape is closely related to the Blaufränkisch variety.
Vineyard area: It is grown only in Steiermark, especially the Weststeiermark. Only Blauer Wildbacher from Steiermark is permitted for the production of Schilcher.
Important ampelographic features:
Leaf: full-gown leaf is wedge-shaped; three to five lobes
Grape cluster: small, with compact berries; conical, shouldered, often with wings; roundish blue-black grapes and a neutral to grassy taste
Ripening time: very late
Significance, conditions: Although its vineyard presence is very small, this grape is nevertheless very well known for its rosé-style wine - a Steiermark speciality called Schilcher. With its pink to onion skin colour, the Schilcher is vinified just like a rosé. The variety demands the best vineyard sites. It is sensitive to late frosts and highly prone to oidium and peronospora.
Wine: Racy acidity as well as a distinctive aroma and taste characterise the fruity-fresh, robust wine - which can be enjoyed also as an apéritif. In gneiss and slate soils, the variety achieves a grassy and spicy expression. Red wine is also made from Blauer Wildbacher, as is Prädikatswein (including Eiswein).
