This very old variety is a crossing of Roter Veltliner x Sylvaner, and is regarded as being typically Austrian. In recent years, it has lost significance, and is mostly sold as table grapes, as a young wine, or as a simple house wine, particularly in the Thermenregion, Weinviertel and Wagram.
Origin
probably Niederösterreich, Austria
Parentage
Natural crossing of Roter Veltliner x Sylvaner
Vineyard area
367 ha, 0.8%
Vineyard area: This old autochthonous grape variety is widely grown in the Thermenregion, Weinviertel and in the Wagram. Its representation in vineyards decreased between 1999 and 2015.
Important ampelographic features
Leaf: Cuneiform to pentagonal, three to five lobes, stalk is red up to the main nerve, slightly open petiole.
Grape cluster: large with thick berries, cylindrical shape, shouldered with elliptic, rose-coloured berries with a neutral taste.
Ripening time: early
Significance and conditions: The significance of the Frühroter Veltliner is decreasing. It is marketed mainly as a table grape, as an en primeur or an open house wine – especially in the Thermenregion, Weinviertel and the Wagram. Has few demands on soil and site.
Wine: The early-drinking, gently acidic wines are low in alcohol and present a bouquet that is mainly herbaceous with whiffs of flowers and bitter almonds.