Lemberger
Lemberger (also known as Blaufränkisch) is a black-skinned grape variety native to Austria and widely grown in Central Europe. It produces medium to full-bodied red wines with bright acidity, moderate tannins, and flavors of dark berries, black cherry, spice, and sometimes pepper notes. Lemberger thrives in cool to moderate climates and is used to produce varietal wines that can range from fresh, fruit-forward styles to more structured wines with aging potential.
Lemberger Wines
Kiona Red Mountain Lemberger
Lemberger might sound like a stinky cheese, but it's actually a seriously underrated red grape (also known as Blaufränkisch in its native Austria). Kiona Vineyards was the first to plant this variety in Washington State back in 1976, making them the OG Lemberger champions in America – a title probably not mentioned on their business cards but impressive nonetheless. Grown on Red Mountain, one of Washington's most prestigious AVAs, this wine showcases what happens when an Eastern European grape variety finds its happy place in the Pacific Northwest. It delivers the perfect balance of bright fruit, peppery spice, and refreshing acidity that makes it incredibly food-friendly. For wine geeks, it's a chance to try something different; for everyone else, it's just delicious red wine that doesn't require a pronunciation guide to enjoy.
Roterfaden & Rosswag Terraces Red
Roterfaden & Rosswag Terraces Red comes from the steep limestone terraces of Württemberg – a German wine region that deserves way more attention than it gets. This blend brings together the local hero Lemberger (aka Blaufränkisch) with Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, creating a wine that's distinctly German yet accessible to international palates. The 'Terraces' in the name refers to the dramatically steep vineyard sites where these grapes are grown – vineyards so precipitous that most work must be done by hand, making mechanization impossible. This labor of love results in a wine with remarkable freshness and mineral definition that speaks clearly of its unique origin. It's the perfect bottle for those looking to explore beyond the Riesling stereotype of German wines and discover the country's excellent reds. Think of it as your vinous tour guide to a side of Germany that most wine drinkers never get to experience.