The indigenous Zierfandler is a curiosity found in the Thermenregion, and derives from Roter Veltliner and a second, unknown parentage, that is thought to liken Traminer. Zierfandler is traditionally blended with Rotgipfler, and vinified as 'Spätrot-Rotgipfler', either as a blend of the two varieties after fermentation, or if planted together in the vineyard, as a mixture.
Origin
probably Thermenregion, Austria
Parentage
Natural crossing of Roter Veltliner and a Traminer-like variety
Vineyard area
61.69 ha; 0.1%
Vineyard area
This autochthonous variety is a rare gem that grows almost exclusively in the Thermenregion.
Ripening
Ripening
Significance & conditions
In the Thermenregion, Zierfandler (Spätrot) and Rotgipfler are sometimes vinified as a Spätrot-Rotgipfler, either blended as two separate varieties or grown and harvested together in the same vineyard. Zierfandler requires the best vineyards and also likes soil that provides only a shallow root depth. It is sensitive to winter frosts and highly prone to botrytis, but also very tolerant of dry conditions and lime-rich soils.
Area under vine in Austria
(as a proportion of the variety’s total area)
Characteristics of the wine
When the grapes are well ripened, the wines are characterised by extract, a pleasant acidity and delicate floral notes. Trockenbeeren-auslese displays a honey-like bouquet that can be complemented by mineral notes. Prädikatswein from this variety has excellent storage potential.
Link
Source varietal specifications: Höhere Bundeslehranstalt und Bundesamt für Wein- und Obstbau (Federal College and Federal Office for Viticulture, Oenology and Fruit Growing) in Klosterneuburg, “Austria’s Qualitätswein grape varieties and their clones“ („Österreichische Qualitätsweinrebsorten und deren Klone“), 2nd, reviewed edition, September 2015
Source area under vine: Austrian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism according to IACS (as at 31 May 2022)
