Ponzichter Franz Weninger 2018

Ponzichter Franz Weninger, biodynamic wine,Pinot Noir, Zweigelt, light, fresh, fruity, energising, fun wine for Thursday night quaffing. Ponzichter was a name for the German-speaking minority of winegrowers in the Sopron region. The Hungarians called the German winegrowers like this, because they grew vegetables, mainly beans, between the wine rows. This great little new cuvee from Weninger has a light hearted spirit about it, fun, energetic red, you can serve lightly chilled or enjoy with some charcuterie at any time you want something light, fruity and natural.

Franz Weninger comes from a lineage which dates back to the early 19th century in the town of Horitschon, Burgenland in southern Austria. Not long after the end of communist Hungary, Franz’s Father bought some parcels of vines in Balf, close to Sopron thought to be the best area for Kekfrankos (Blaufrankisch) in Hungary. The area lies in close proximity to lake Neusiedlersee which has a warming influence contrasted by cool winds which come down from the nearby mountains. This special climate makes for perfect ripening conditions for Kekfrankos.

Since 2006, the Wininger family have been working biodynamically which they see as essential for the best quality grapes and to fully realise the difference in terroir expressed in this sensitive grape variety. The soils in Sopron, Gneiss and Mica-schist yield a different style of wine to that in nearby Burgenland which is limestone, chalk, and clay. Their production in both Hungary and Austria is dominated by different expressions of Kekfrankos but they also plant Furmint, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, some international varieties and even produce a delicious natural cider. Their commitment to natural farming and quality wine is combined with outstanding value for money.