Austria & Central/Eastern Europe Flashcards
Leading grape variety of Austria
Gruner Veltliner
Name for Chardonnay (sometimes) used in Austria
Morrillon
Most widely planted red grape in Austria
Zweigelt
Parentage: Zweigelt
Blaufrankisch X St. Laurent
Austrian scale for must weight
KMW: Klosterneuburger Mostwaage
Three levels of wine classification used in Austria
Basic wine: Wein
PGI: Landwein
PDO: Qualitatswein, Pradikatswein, DAC
What is a DAC?
Districtus Austriae Controllatus
PDO regions that are approved only for specific grape varieties and types of wine
Austrian dried-grape wine
Strohwein (Schilfwein)
Austrian “mountain wine”
Bergwein (minimum 26% gradient)
Three terms (indicating ripeness) used by the Vinea Wachau
Steinfeder
Federspiel
Smaragd
Austria’s three Landwein regions (Weinbauregion)
Weinland Osterreich
Steierland
Bergland
Austria’s four quality wine regions (Weinbaugebiete)
Burgenland
Niederosterreich
Wien (Vienna)
Steiermark
Burgenland DAC approved for both red and white wines
Leithaberg DAC
DAC – located in Niederosterreich – approved for Gruner Veltliner only
Weinviertel DAC
Grape varieties (2) allowed in the Traisental, Kremstal, and Kamptal DACs
Gruner Veltliner
Riesling
Two DACs – located in Burgenland – approved for Blaufrankisch only
Mittelburgenland DAC
Eisenberg DAC
DAC – located in Burgenland – approved for Zweigelt and Zweigelt-based blends
Neusiedlersee DAC
Niederosterreich DAC – approved in 2019 – for dry wines (100% varietal and/or blends)
Carnuntum DAC
DAC approved for white field blends only
Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC
Wine region – located in Niederosterreich – formerly known as Donauland
Wagram
Three DACs of Steiermark
Sudsteiermark DAC
Vulkanland Steiermark DAC
Weststeiermark DAC
DAC where 20% of the vineyards are Sauvignon Blanc
Sudsteiermark DAC
DAC known for volcanic soils
Vulkanland Steiermark DAC
Region of production: Schilcher Rose
Weststeiermark DAC
Grape variety used in Schilcher Rose
Blauer Wildbacher
Traditional, seasonal wine taverns of Austria
Heurigen
Dessert wine produced near the town of Rust
Ruster Ausbruch
Levels of the Austrian Pradikat, from lowest to highest
Spatlese
Auslese
Beerenauslese/Eiswein/Strohwein
Trockenbeerenauslese
Alternative name of Hungary’s “Egri Bikaver”
Bull’s Blood/Bull’s Blood of Eger
Main grape variety of Egri Bikaver
Kadarka
Alternative name for Blaufrankisch (used in Hungary)
Kekfrankos
Famous dessert wine of Hungary
Tokaji Aszu
In addition to Hungary, Tokaji Aszu is produced in a small area of:
Slovakia
2 leading grape varieties of Tokaji Aszu
Furmint
Harslevelu
Ultra-sweet wine produced in Tokaj using free-run from botrytis-affected grapes
Eszencia (Essencia)
The inland area of Croatia
Kontinentalna Hrvatska
The western (coastal) portion of Croatia
Primorska Hrvatska
Croatia’s native grape, considered synonymous with Zinfandel
Crljenak Kastelanski (also known as Tribidrag)
Most widely grown white grape in Croatia
Grasevina
Welschriesling
Leading white grape of Switzerland
Chasselas
Fendant
Leading red grape of Switzerland
Pinot Noir
Leading wine region of Switzerland; located near the Rhone River to the east of Lake Geneva
Valais
Leading wine region of French-speaking Switzerland
Northern Shore of Lake Geneva
Two leading white grapes of Romania
Feteasca Alba
Feteasca Regala
Two leading red grapes of Romania
Pinot Noir (for export) Feteasca Neagra (signature red)
Location of the Cotnari DOC
Moldovan Hills, Romania
Three PGI regions of Slovenia
Podravje
Primorska
Posavje
Egg-shaped vessel used to produce wine in the Republic of Georgia
Kvevri (Qvevri)
Leading red grape of the Republic of Georgia
Saperavi
Leading white grape of the Republic of Georgia
Rkatsiteli
Winery famous for producing “Brut Paradiso” sparkling wine
Novy Svet Winery (Crimea)
What is responsible for the halting and infastructure destruction in Eastern Europe?
World War II and the subsequent Soviet domination of most of the area
Which countries remained outside of communist rule?
Austria & Switzerland
How were Austria and Switzerland affected by being outside communist rule compared to the other coutries of eastern and central Europe?
It seemingly focused them on high output, which resulted in a decrease in quality
When did Austria run to its own quality issues?
1980s
Why are Swiss wines largely unseen outside of Switzerland?
Partly because of domestic consumption and partially because the Swiss franc is higher in value than other currencies (which makes Swiss wines prohibitively expensive)
What did Austria originally act as?
A supplier of bulk wines for the German wine market
What happened in Austria that brought on a public relations crisis in the mid-1980s?
A few brokers chemically adulterated some wine to artifically give them richness
How did Austria respond to the public relations crisis?
After several years of disastrous export sales, the Austrians tightened controls and began focusing on quality.
Is Austria a major player in the wine market?
No, but its wines are well regarded
Where is Austrial?
Centrally located in Europe, southeast of Germany and northeast of Italy
Why are the lower hills and plains in the eastern part of Austria the only parts that contain winegrowing areas?
Because the Alps cover much of the country, especially toward the west
Where are the majority of Austria’s vineyard lands?
The three eastern states of Niederosterreich, Burgenland, and Steirmark which border the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Slovenia
Another name for Niederosterreich
Lower Austria
Another name for Steiermark
Styria
What is the climate of Austria?
As in most of central Europe, the climate in eastern Austria is cool continental. Summers are mild and winters are very cold.
What is the climate of Austria similar to?
That of Baden in Germany, which lies at the same latitude just to the west. Its viticultural conditions are similar as well
How many grape varieties are authorized for use in Austria bottled at the PGI or PDO level?
40 (26 white and 14 red)
How much of Austria’s production is white wine?
Over 66%
What is the signature grape variety of Austria?
Gruner Veltliner
Gruner Veltliner profile
Citrus, white pepper, and mineral characteristics
What do young examples of Gruner Veltliner provide vs. older vines and better vineyards?
Young - Fresh fruit & vibrant acidity
Older vines - Ageability for 3 to 10 years
Is Gruner Veltliner widely grown outside of Austria?
No, it is found only in a few places, mostly in eastern Europe
How much of Austria is planted to Gruner Veltliner?
1/3 of the total acreage – 35,530 acres (14,380 ha)
What is Welschriesling?
Not true Riesling, but a variety that makes fragrant, perfumed, high-acid wines
What is Muller-Thurgau?
Riesling X Madeline Royal crossing, it is a reliable producer, but it makes wines that are low in acid and relatively unremarkable
Another name for Weissburgunder
Pinot Blanc
What is true about Riesling in Austria?
Most commonly produed in a dry style, but also in the full range of sweetness levels up to Trockenbeerenauslese
What is another name for Chardonnay in Austria?
Morillon
What is the second most widely planted grape in Austria?
Zweigelt
What is Zweigelt?
Blaufrankisch X St. Laurent crossing, displays a medium body and cherry flavors with a peppery finish
Two alternate names for Blaufrankisch
Lemberger
Kekfrankos
What is Blaufrankisch?
One of the few Austrian varieties with commercial importance in the United States. Produces a full-bodied wine with high acidity, solid tannins, and dark-berry fruit flavors
What is St. Laurent?
A member of the Pinot family that produces medium-bodied wines with medium tannins and cherry-berry flavors
Does St. Laurent have a large amount of plantings in Austria?
No, it makes up only a small percentage of planted acreage, but it is increasingly exported
Leading red grape varieties of Austria
Zweigelt Blaufrankisch Spatburgunder Blauburger St. Laurent Portugieser Merlot
Leading white grape varieties of Austria
Gruner Veltliner Welchriesling Riesling Weissburgunder Muller-Thurgau Chardonnay/Morillon Sauvignon Blanc Muskateller/Muscat
Austrian name for Muscat
Muskateller
What is the Austrian measure for must weight?
Klosterneuburger Mostwaage (KMW)
What is 1 degree KMW in Brix?
1.2 Brix
What is 1 degree KMW in Oechsle?
5 Oechsle
Austria’s place-of-origin and classification system is similar, but not identical to what country?
Germany
What is Austria’s classification heirarchy based on?
Minimum levels of ripeness, as well as other attributes
Three levels of Austrian wines
Wein
Landwein
PDO (which features 3 sub-categories)
What is the former name of Wein?
Tafelwein
What is Wein in Austria?
Basic category, may carry a vintage date and/or a grape variety
What can Wein not carry in Austria?
A place-of-origin more specific than Osterreich
Local name for Austria
Osterreich
What is Landwein in Austria?
Wine with a geographical indication equivalent to PGI in the EU model
Austrian Landwein regions are called?
Weinbauregionen
What are the 3 Weinbauregionen?
Weinland Osterreich
Steierland
Bergland
What are the 3 terms for PDO wines in Austria?
Qualitatswein
Pradikatswein
Districtus Austriae Controllatus (DAC)
What are the requirements for PDO wines in Austria?
Must be sourced from a single quality wine region (Weinbaugebiet), subregion, or a specifically-defined Districtus Austriae Controllatus (DAC)
Austrian term for single quality wine region
Weinbaugebiet
How much of Austrian wine is PDO level?
2/3rds
How many of Austria’s Federal States are designated as PDO wine-producing appellations?
All 9, although the majority of the PDO-level wine is produced in its easternmost states
What is required for Austria’s Qualitatswein?
Must be produced from grapes harvested at a minimum of 15 degrees KMW
How many degrees KMW are required to qualify for Pradikatswein status?
19 degrees KMW
How do Austria’s Pradikatswein levels differ from Germany’s?
Kabinett wines are considered a subset of Qualitatswein rather than the beginning rung on the ripeness ladder of the Pradikat
Austrian Pradikat includes guidelines for a dried-grape wine, known as Strohwein or Schilfwein
What are the Austrian Pradikats based on?
Ripeness levels
Austrian dried-grape wine
Strohwein/Schilfwein
What are the Austrian Pradikatswein levels from least to mo
Spatlese
Auslese
Beerenauslese (BA),Eiswein, and Strohwein/Schilfwein
Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA)
Spatlese requirements in Austria
Minimum 19 degrees KMW
Auslese requirements in Austria
21 degrees KMW; unripe grapes must be removed from the bunches
BA, Eiswein, and Strohwein/Schilfwein requirements in Austria
Minimum 21 degrees KMW
TBA requirements in Austria
Minimum 30 degrees KMW; majority of the grapes must be affected by Botrytis
Why was there concern about using must weight (sugar content) as a designation of quality in Austria?
Austrian producers thought that their wines would be broad-brushed as being universally sweet – so they sought to further define quality for its dry wines
Organization in the Wachau that defines dry wines?
Vinea Wachau (Vinea Wachau Nobilis Districtus)
3 levels of quality in Vinea Wachau
Steinfeder
Federspiel
Smaragd
Steinfeder
Lightest style of dry wines
Federspiel
Classic or middleweight dry wines
Smaragd
Fullest-bodied dry wines
What do the Vinea Wachau terms indicate?
Increasing levels of ripeness for wines that are dry on the palate
When was the DAC instituted?
2003
What was instituted in 2003 in Austria?
Districtus Austriae Controllatus (DAC)
Appellation system that follows the terroir-based concept developed in France and promoted by the European Union.
What are Districtus Austriae Controllatus (DAC)?
Classified grape-growing regions which may be considered the highest level of quality in Austria
What can the DAC designation be used for?
Only for the specified grape varieties considered the most outstanding and most typical of the delineated region
What does each DAC specify?
Alcohol levels
Aging regimens
Other specific details
Can all wines produced within a DAC use that label?
No, wines that don’t meet requirements carry a more generic area label
Austrian name for classic
Klassik
2 levels that exist in DACs
Klassik
Reserve
What does the Reserve level in DACs indicate?
Higher standards for alcohol profile and specifics in terms of flavor profile
Which 3 DACs recieved additional classifications in JUly 2016? What were they?
Kamptal DAC
Kremstal DAC
Traisental DAC
They will be further classified according to a three-tier quality ladder, beginning with regional, and moving up to village, and single vineyard wines
Are most non DAC designations terroir driven?
No they are based primarily on the ripeness of the harvested grapes
What is a key difference between Austrian and German wine styles?
Austrian wines (excluding dessert wines) are typically dry
Two wine styles unique to Austria
Strohwein/Schilfwein
Bergwein
What is Strohwein/Schilfwein
Dried-grape wine that uses grapes of at least BA ripeness that have been air-dried on mats made of Stroh (straw) or Schilf (reeds) or hung on strings. The raisenated grapes are then pressed, and the juice is fermented into a sweet wine
What determines whether the dried-grape wine is Strohwein or Schilfwein?
Drying vessel – Strohwein is dried on mats made of straw. Schilfwein is dried on mats made of reeds
What is Strohwein/Schilfwein similar to?
Recioto wines of Veneto (Italy)
What are the requirements for Strohwein/Schilfwein?
Dried for a minimum of 3 months if picked at 25 KMW
Otherwise, they may be picked at 30 KMW and stored for two months
What does Bergwein mean?
Mountain wine
What is Bergwein?
Wine produced using grapes grown on extraordinarily steep mountain slopes with at least a 26% gradient
What is the largest winegrowing region in Austria in bothe geographical area nad vineyard acreage?
Niederosterreich (Lower Austria)
Climate of Niederosterreich
This landlocked area has a continental climate with warm, dry summers and severe wineters
What river flows through Niederosterreich?
Danube River (It flows southeast through the region)
What is true about the Danube River in Austria?
Flows southeast through the region/Many of the more renowned vineyards are planted along its path
DACs/Subregions of Niederosterreich
DACs
- Carnuntum DAC
- Kamptal DAC
- Kremstal DAC
- Traisental DAC
- Weinviertel DAC
Subregions
- Thermenregion
- Wachau
- Wagram
What is the largest subregion of Niederosterreich? Where does is stretch from?
Weinviertel DAC; stretches from the Danube Valley to the borders of the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Requirements for Weinviertel DAC
Must be 100% Gruner Veltliner
Profile of Weinviertel DAC
Gruner Veltliners that tend to be quite pungent, spicy, and peppery
Weinviertel DAC Reserve characteristic
May have a subtle botrytis character
Which 3 DACs in Niederosterreich have similar climates?
Traisental DAC
Kamptal DAC
Kremstal DAC
What do Traisental DAC, Kamptal DAC, and Kremstal DAC produce?
Gruner Veltliner or Riesling
How does the Gruner Veltliner of Traisental DAC, Kamptal DAC, and Kremstal DAC differ from Weinviertal DAC?
The former tends to be lighter and more delicate in style as compared to those of Wienviertal DAC
Where is Wachau?
Westernmost area of Niederosterreich; lies in a valley following the path of Danube River
What does Wachau produce?
Riesling and Gruner Veltliner, made into dry, age-worthy wines and often planted on steep inclines; are the leading grapes of the area
Where is Wagram?
Located along the Danube River to the east of Wachau, Kremstal, and Kamptal
Former name of Wagram
Donauland
When was Donauland renamed Wagram?
2007
What does Wagram produce?
Gruner Veltliner (most widely planted) Roter Veltliner Riesling Pinot Noir Zweigelt
Style of Gruner Veltliner in Wagram
Rich, flavorful, and characteristically spicy white wine
What is Roter Veltliner?
Pink-skinned grape that – despite its name – has no direct genetic link to Gruner Veltliner
What region became a DAC in 2020?
Wachau DAC
Where is Thermenregion located?
Far from the moderating influence of the Danube
What does Thermenregion produce?
A good deal of red wine – focusing on Zweigelt
Two unique grapes grown in Thermenregion?
Rotgipfler
Zierfandler (Spatrot)
Where is the Carnuntum DAC?
To the south and east of Vienna
When did Carnuntum become a DAC?
October of 2019
What is Carnuntum DAC approved for?
Production of dry wines which may be produced as single-variety wines of blends
What are the white wine varieties allowed in Carnuntum DAC?
Chardonnay
Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc)
Gruner Veltliner
What are the red wine varieties allowed in Carnuntum DAC?
Zweigelt
Blaufrankisch
How much of the named variety is required for varietal labelling in Carnuntum DAC?
100%
How much of the aforementioned grape varieties are required for labelling in Carnuntum DAC blends?
At least 67% (2/3rds)
Where is Burgenland?
South of Niederosterreich and shares a border with Hungary
What creates ideal conditions for the growth of Botrytis cinerea in Burgenland?
Lake Neusiedl, the largest closed-basin lake in Europe
What famous wine of Austria is produced on the western shore of Lake Neusiedl in the town of Rust?
Ruster Ausbruch
As of a 2016 change in the Austrian Wine Law, what is Ausbruch synonymous with?
The Trockenbeerenauslese level of teh Austrian Pradikat
Can the Ausbruch designation be used on any TBA wine?
No, it can only be used in conjunction with the wines of Rust
What is Ruster Ausbruch?
Wine produced on the western shore of Lake Neusiedl in the town of Rust from a combination of botrytis-affected grapes and less concentrated grapes harvested from teh same vineyard. The wine is aged before release, and is often ranked among the finest dessert wines in the world.
5 DACs of Burgenland
Mittelburgenland DAC Eisenberg DAC Neusiedlersee DAC Leithaberg DAC Rosalia DAC
What does Mittelburgenland DAC produce?
Red wines based on Blaufrankisch; Wines are known for full body, deep color, and spicy aromas as well as red and black fruit flavors
Classic requirements for Mittelburgenland DAC
Must be matured in stainless steel or used oak; should not show any oak influence
Reserve requirements fro Mittelburgenland DAC
Additional year of aging (often aged in new oak which is not allowed for Classic)
Where is Eisenberg DAC?
Surrounding Eisenberg Hill in the southern protion of Burgenland
What is produced in Eisenberg DAC?
Red wines from Blaufrankisch; similar rules to Mittelburgenland DAC
Where is Neusiedlersee DAC?
To the east of Lake Neusiedl and stretching to the Hungarian border
What is produced in Neusiedlersee DAC?
Red wines based on Zweigelt
Where is Leithaberg DAC?
The vineyards of Leithaberg DAC stretch between Lake Neusiedl to the east, and the Leith Mountains to the west
Another name for Leith Mountains
Leithagebirge
How do the lake and mountains affect Leithaberg DAC?
Warm winds around the lake encourage ripeness, while the mountains provide for a significant diurnal swing and cool temperatures at night
White wines of Leithaberg DAC requirements
May be single variety or blend
Varieties allowed - Gruner Veltliner, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, and/or Neuburger
What is Neuburger
Indigenous cross of Roter Veltliner X Sylvaner
Red wines of Leithaberg DAC requirements
Based on Blaufrankisch, with an allowed (combined) maximum of 15% Zweigelt, St. Laurent, and/or Pinot Noir
When was the Rosalia DAC added?
Early 2018
What is the Rosalia DAC named for?
Rosaliengebirge (Rosalia Mountain Range)
Where is the Rosalia Mountain Range?
It comprises a portion of the Alpine Foothills located on the border between Burgenland and Niederosterreich
What is allowed in Rosalia DAC?
Dry wines only! (Red or Rose)
Grape varieties of red wines in Rosalia DAC
Blaufrankisch or Zweigelt (Can be single variety or blend)
Rosalia Rose can be produced from what varieties?
Any red grape variety approved for PDO wines in Austria
What is the southernmost wine-producing region of Austria?
Steiermark (Styria)
How much of Austria’s vineyards are in Steiermark?
Less than 10%
What is the topography of Steiermark?
Hilly, almost mountainous region with deep valleys and many vineyards planted on south-facing slopes in order to intercept the vivid sunlight
Climate of Steiermark
Slightly warmer than most other viticultural areas in Austria (although the winters can be just as cold)
Due to the warmer climate, what are the 2 leading varieties of Steiermark?
Sauvignon Blanc
Chardonnay
Are all of Steiermark’s subregions DACs?
Yes, as of the 2018 vintage
3 subregions of Steiermark
Sudsteiermark DAC
Vulkanland Steiermark DAC
Weststeiermark DAC
Austrian term for regulations
Verordnungen
How much of Sudsteiermark is planted to Sauvignon Blanc?
Nearly 20% (Leading grape variety)
How big is the Sudsteiermark DAC?
6,234 Acres (2,563 ha)
4 main grape varieties of Sudsteiermark DAC
Sauvignon Blanc
Riesling
Pinot Gris
Chardonnay
The inclines of Sudsteiermark can reach a steepness of up to?
45 degrees
What are the soils in Sudsteiermark?
Flatter regions – Primarily marine sediments
Hills/slopes - Marl & Conglomerate soils
Climate of Sudsteiermark
Climate during the vegetative cycle typically consists of warm and humid days combined with cool nights
What does the climate of Sudsteiermark allow for?
A long growing season and complex, concentrated grapes
What type of soil is in Vulkanland Steiermark?
Volcanic Soils
How big is Vulkanland Steiermark?
3,765 acres (1,524 ha) planted to vines
Where are many of the vines of Vulkanland Steiermark planted?
Slopes of the area’s long-dormant volcanoes, some reaching eleavation as high as 1,968 ft/600 m
Grape varieties of Vulkanland Steiermark
Welchriesling Chardonnay (Morillon) Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc) Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris) Sauvignon Blanc Zweigelt
What is Weststeiermark DAC characterized by?
Steep hills and deep valleys
How big is Weststeiermark?
One of the smalles wine-growing regions of Austria (by acreage) with just over 1200 acres (500 ha) planted to vines
What wine is Weststeiermark known for?
Primarily known for its Schilcher Rose, now labeled as Schilcher Klassik Westeiermark DAC
What is Schilcher Klassik Westeiermark Rose?
Schilcher Rose is produced from the Blauer Wildbacher (Schilcher) grape variety
How much of all vine plantings in Weststeiermark is Schilcher (Blauer Wildbacher)
Nearly 85%
Other grape varieties of Weststeiermark
Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc)
Welchriesling
Muller-Thurgau
Reds from Blauer Wildbacher (small amount)
What is the only European captial to have a PDO within its city limits?
Vienna (Wien)
What river does Wien lie along?
Danube River
How big is Wien?
Tiny – just 1,500 acres (510 ha), but quite significant in terms of culture and history5
What are Heurigen?
Seasonal wine taverns in Wien that were a popular annual tradition, where the local winemakeers served their newly-produced wine in and around the vineyards at harvest time
What is Gemischter Satz?
Tradition of Wien (shared in other parts of Austria as well) – wines made from several different grape varieties fermented together
When was the Wiener (Viennese) Gemischter Satz DAC approved? For what?
2013; White wines produced using at least 3 grape varieties
Requirements for Wiener (Viennese) Gemischter Satz DAC
At least 3 varieties
Grapes must be harvested, pressed, and fermented together
No more than 50% from any single variety, and a minimum of 10% each of at least three varieties
Meant to be fruit-forward
May not show significant influenc of oak
What is unique about Wiener (Viennese) Gemischter Satz?
Grapes must not only be processed together but also must be grown together in a field blend (side by side in the vineyard)
How many varieties are allowed in Gemischter Satz?
15, and all may be present in a single wine
What are some of the varieties approved for Gemischter Satz?
Gruner Veltliner Sylvaner Traminer Rotgipfler Neuburger Weissburgunder Grauburgunder Chardonnay
How much of Hungary’s wine production is white?
Over 70%
What grape variety is often used to produce dry white wines and is part of the blend in Hungary’s famous dessert wine Tokaji Aszu?
Furmint
Hungary’s famous dessert wine
Tokaji Azsu
Best-known red wine of Hungary
Egri Bikaver (Bull’s Blood of Eger)
Alternate name for Egri Bikaver
Bull’s Blood of Eger
What is Egri Bikaver?
Full-bodied wine traditionally made from Kadarka grapes belnded with other varieties such as Kekfrankos (Blaufrankisch), Kekoporto (Portugieser), Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Menoire, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Blauburger, and Zweigelt
Alternate name for Blaufrankisch in Hungary
Kekfrankos
Alternate name for Portugieser in Hungary
Kekoporto
When was a newer version of Egri Bikaver introduced?
2004
When did Hungary become a member of the EU?
2004
What is the newer version of Egri Bikaver?
Egri Bikaver Superior
What does Egri Bikaver Superior require?
Use of at least 5 of the recommended varieties
What did Tokaji Aszu manage to survive?
Soviet control in the twentieth century
Where is Tokaji Aszu produced?
Tokaj PDO in Northern Hungary
What countries is the Tokaj PDO located within?
Hungary (Northern)
Slovakia (Eastern; small part)
What are the authorized grape varieties for Tokaj?
Furmint Harslevelu Kabar Koverszolo Sargamuskotaly (Muscat) Zeta
Hungarian name for Muscat
Sargamuskotaly
What is the climate in certain portions of the vineyard region in Tokaj ideal for?
Encouraging the development of botrytis
Aside from dessert wines what else is produced in Tokaj?
Dry white wines and sparkling wines
What are the primary grape varieties used for Tokaji Aszu? Why?
Furmint
Harslevelu
They provide enough acidity and aromatic character to keep the wine from being cloying
What are the grapes called in Hungary, when they are late-harvested, botrytis affected grapes?
Aszu
How are Aszu wines made?
Aszu grapes are gently mashed into a thick paste and then mixed with a normally fermented base wine to absorb the sugar and flavors of the aszu. Wine is then racked and aged in small casks for a few years in underground tunnels where film-forming yeast similar to the flor of the Sherry region grows
What is another name for Eszencia?
English name – Essencia
What is Eszencia?
Wine produced in the Tokaj region – made from the free-run juice of the sweetest, most-botrytized, hand selected berries
Requirements for Eszencia
Minimum of 45% residual sugar, and often takes years to ferment to a content of 5% to 6% alcohol by volume
How long does the winemaking tradition in Croatia stretch back?
More than 2000 years
What negatively affected winemaking in Croatia?
Like the other member states of the former Yugoslavia, it was somewhat wracked by warfare or controled by a communist dictatorship for most of the last century
When did Croatia become an independent democratic republic?
1991
Where are the fine wine growing conditions in Croatia?
Along the Adriatic Sea
When did Croatia join the EU?
2013
What grape variety is Croatia known for?
Crljenak Kastelanski (Tribidrag)
Another name for Crljenak Kastelanski
Tribidrag
Zinfandel (in US)
Primitivo (in Italy)
What was Crljenak Kastelanski renamed as in the United States?
Zinfandel
What was Crljenak Kastelanski renamed as in Italy?
Primitivo
What is the most widely grown white grape variety in Croatia?
Grasevina (Welchriesling)
Another name for Grasevina
Welchriesling
How much of Croatia’s production is white wine?
Nearly 2/3rds
White grape varieties of Croatia
Grasevina (Welchriesling) Malvasia Bogdanusa Sauvignon Blanc Pinot Gris Chardonnay
Red grape varieties of Croatia
Crljenak Kastelanski Frankovka (Blaufrankisch) Teran Plavac Mali (Close relative Crljenak Kastelanski) Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot
Another name for Blaufrankisch in Croatia
Frankovka
What is Plavac Mali closely related to?
Crljenak Kastelanski
How many broad region is Croatia’s wine country divided into? What seperates them?
Two (Kontinentalna Hrvatska & Primorska Krvatska); Dinaric Alps
What is the name of the inland region of Croatia?
Kontinentalna Hrvatska (Inland Croatia)
Where is Inland Croatia?
Stretches eastward over 150 miles (240 km), covering much of the eastern half of the country to the border with Hungary
What is produced in Kontinentaln Hrvatska (Inland Croatia)?
Majority is white wines for local consumption
What is the western half of Croatia called?
Primorska Hrvatska (Coastal Croatia)
Where is Coastal Croatia?
Extends along the Adriatic coastline for 330 miles (530 km), with vineyard areas interspersed among islands and inlents formed by the Kvarner Gulf
What is the climate of Primorska Hrvatska (Coastal Croatia)?
Mediterranean, with mairitime influences in the south and warmer areas in the north, particularly around the Istrian Peninsula
What is produced in Primorska Hrvatska (Coastal Croatia)?
Majority of the wines, and an even greater majority of the high-quality wines of Croatia
Why does Switzerland export little of its output (as a relatively small producer of wine)?
Country’s domestic demand is 3x its production volume; Swiss wines are also very expensive outside of Switzerland, given the high value of the Swiss franc
Does Switzerland follow the EU model of wine classification?
No, Switzerland is not a member of the EU and has its own governing body in charge of wine
What is the name of the governing body in charge of wine within Switzerland?
OIC
3 names depending on which official language of Switzerland is used
French – Organisme Intercantonal de Certifcation
German – Interkantonale Zertifizierungsstelle
Italian – Organismo Intercantonale di Certificazione
What country’s system is similar to that of Switzerland?
The French AOC system
When did official wine regions and controlled appellations begin to be implemented in Switzerland?
1990s
What do the appellations of Switzerland specify?
Many of them specify grape varieties, and some specify winemaking and wine styles
What are the states that oversee winemaking called in Switzerland?
Cantons
Where are most of Switzerland’s winegrowing areas?
Despite being set amid the rugged Alps, Switzerland has many protected valleys with fine weatehr for winegrowing. Primary areas of produciton are in the French-speaking part of the country along the northern shore of Lake Geneva and in teh Valais, the valley of the Rhone River, to its east
Does Switzerland produce more red or white wine?
Slightly more red
Main grape varieties of Switzerland
Pinot Noir (leading)
Gamay
Merlot
Chasselas (leading white)
Another name for Chasselas in Switzerland
Fendant
What did Romania spend most of the 20th century doing in regards to wine?
Making large amounts of bulk wine to send east to the Soviet Union (Romania is a former Soviet satellite – Republic of Romania)
When did Romania join the EU?
2007
What did Romania’s entrance into the EU allow for?
Influx of investments and expertise, as well as easier access to markets in the West
What is the climate of Romania?
Generally continental, moderated in places by the Black Sea, Danube River, and Carpathian Mountains
How many appellations are in Romania?
More than 40
What is the oldest appellation in Romania?
Tarnave DOC
Where is Tarnave DOC?
In the center of Romania surrounding the Carpathian Mountains
Well-known sweet wines DOC of Romania?
Cotnari DOC
Where is Cotnari DOC?
In the Moldovan Hills (near the eastern border of Romania)
Why were many of Romania’s vineyards replaced with French varieties?
Phylloxera
What did the Phylloxera epidemic lead to in Romania?
Many of Romania’s vineyards were replanted to French varieties – so today there is a dual focus on both indegenous and international grape varieties that has led to varietally labeled wines as well as unusual blends of both French and Romanian varieties
Two most widely planted white grapes of Romania
Feteasca Alba
Feteasca Regala
Both of which produce light, aromatic wines with varying levels of sweetness
White international varieties of Romania
Muscat
Aligote
Sauvignon Blanc
Two most planted red grapes of Romania (1 international, 1 native)
Pinot Noir
Feteasca Neagra
What is Pinot Noir considered in Romania?
Leading red grape for the export market
What is Feteasca Neagra considered in Romania?
Flagship red variety of the country
When was Bulgaria a leading producer and exporter of wine in terms of volume?
1970s and early 1980s
What stopped the progression of the Bulgarian wine industry?
Tumultuous political forces in the years that followed the early 1980s
When did Bulgaria begin its transformation to democracy?
1990
When did Bulgaria join the EU?
2007, during which time the country began to slowly modernize and improve its wine industry
What is the majority of Bulgaria’s wine made from? Intended for?
Made from international varieties; Intended for Export, although boutique projects, traditional practices, and native grape varieties remain a small but thriving part of the industry
Location and Climate of Bulgaria
Located in the eastern portion of the Balkan Peninsula, Bulgaria has a diverse topography and a temperate continental climate with hot summers, long, cold winters and four distinct seasons.
What river seperates Bulgaria from Romania (its neighbor to the north)?
Danube River
What does the northern portion of Bulgaria consist of?
Vast lowlands of the Danube Plain
What does the southern portion of Bulgaria consist of?
Dominated by highlands and elevated plains
What borders Bulgaria to the east?
Black Sea
Does Bulgaria plant more reds or whites?
Split more or less evenly
Red grape varieties of Bulgaria
(Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot) - two most widely planted international Syrah Pinot Noir Zinfandel
Mavrud Rubin Gamza Melnik Pamid
What is Rubin?
Nebbiolo x Syrah cross
Another name for Gamza
Kadarka
What is Melnik?
Highly tannic variety mostly planted in the Struma River Valley of Bulgaria
What is Pamid?
Thin-skinned, early-ripening variety in Bulgaria
What are the two most widely planted white grapes of Bulgaria?
Rkatsiteli
Dimiat
(common throughout Eastern Europe)
What is Misket Cherven?
Red Misket; Highly aromatic, pink-skinned variety grown in the hillier areas of Bulgaria
International white varieties of Bulgaria
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Riesling
Viognier
Where is Slovenia?
Located on the Mediterranean coast – shares a border with 4 established wine countries
4 Established wine countries that share a border with Slovenia
West - Italy
North - Austria
South/Southeast - Croatia
Northeast - Hungary
When did Slovenia become an independent nation?
1991
When did Slovenia join the EU?
2003
What are Slovenia’s PDO wines classified as?
ZOP - Zasciteno oznacbo porekla
How many zasciteno oznacbo porekla (ZOPs) in Slovenia
14 defined, as well as several variations
What examples of the variations for ZOPs?
Traiditonal Method sparkling wines, botrytis-affected wines, and wines with a certain degree of aging
How many PGI regions in Slovenia?
3
What is the name of the PGI category in Slovenia?
zasciteno geografsko oznacbo (ZGO)
What are the 3 zasciteno geografso oznacbo (ZGOs) of Slovenia?
Podravje ZGO
Primorska ZGO
Posavje ZGO
Where is Podravje ZGO?
Inland east of Slovenia, surrounding the valleys of the Pesnica, Drava, and Mura Rivers.
Largest of Slovenias ZGOs
Podravje – produces roughly half of the country’s wine
Where is Primorska?
On the coast, across the Adriatic Sea from Venice and sharing a border with Italy’s Friuli region; several of the wine areas located within Primorska straddle the Italian-Slovenian border, divided only by politics
Two Slovenian/Italian shared ZOP/DOC examples
Slovenia - Goriska Brda ZOP
Italy - Collio Goriziano DOC
Slovenia - Kras ZOP
Italy - Carso DOC
Where is Posavje?
Located in the southeast of Slovenia, along the border with Croatia
What does the name Posavje refer to?
(Lower Sava) – refers to its proximity to the end of the Sava River valley
What is Posavje?
Slovenia’s smallest – and perhaps most old-fashioned – wine-producing region
What do the grape varieties of Slovenia reflect?
Influence of Italy, Germany, and Austria, and include French (international) varieties as well
Does Slovenia produce more white or red wines?
White
Widely planted white grape varieties of Slovenia
Riesling Gewurztraminer (Traminec) Muller-Thurgau (Rizvanec) Pinot Gris (Sivi Pinot) Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay Tai (Friulano) Ribolla Gialla
Name for Gewurztraminer in Slovenia
Traminec
Name for Muller-Thurgau in Slovenia
Rizvanec
Name for Pinot Gris in Slovenia
Sivi Pinot
Name for Friulano in Slovenia
Tai
Two popular Friulian grape varieties (Tai & Ribolla Gialla) are grown primarily where is Slovenia?
Primorska (near the Italian border)
What are the leading red grape varieties of Slovenia?
Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot St. Laurent Pinot Noir (Modri Pinot) Refosco
Name for Pinot Noir in Slovenia
Modri Pinot
Where do many archeologist believe is the site of the world’s first cultivated vineyards?
Present-day Georgia
What has recently been added to UNESCO’s list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity?
The Georgian tradition of aging wine in large, egg-shaped earthenware vessels known as kvevris (often spelled qvevri)
What are kvevris (qvevris)?
Georgian large, egg shaped earthenware vessels for aging wine
When did Georgia become an independent state?
1991
When did Georgia pass the “Law of Georgia on Wine and Vine”?
1998
What did the “Law of Georgia on Wine and Vine” do?
Specify winemaking zones (Controlled appellations recognized by the EU), as well as specifications for grape varieties, definitions of approved wine styles, and a list of approved winemaking and viticultural practices
Is Georgia a member of the EU?
No, although Georgia and the European Union have maintained trade relations since 1996
How many acres in Georgia are under vine?
110,000 acres (44,500 ha)
What type of wild vines are found in some parts of Georgia?
Vitis vinifera silvestris
How many identifiable indigenous varieties are in Georgia?
500
How much of Georgian wine is from indigenous varieties?
Close to 90%
How many varieties are used for commercial winemaking in Georgia?
35
Most widely grown grape in Georgia
White – Rkatsiteli (also the predominant white grape variety of eastern Europe)
Style of Rkatsiteli
Light, floral, crisp white wines
What is the leading red grape of Georgia
Saperavi
Style of Saperavi
High-alcohol wines with good potential for aging
What region has the best viticultural conditions of the former Soviet Union?
Crimea
Where is Crimea?
Shaped basically like a peninsula that extends into the Black Sea
What does Crimea have a long history of?
Sparkling wine production
What did sparkling wine production begin with in Crimea?
1878 founding of Novy Svet Winery
Famous wine of Novy Svet Winery in Crimea
Brut Paradiso
What did Novy Svet Winery’s Brut Paradiso win in the 1900 World’s Fair in Paris?
Grand Prix de Champagne – beating out many famous Champagne producers
What was the Crimean Peninsula during Soviet times?
Larges wine supplier in the USSR
Colorful name of the wine produced during Soviet times in Crimea?
Sovetskoye Shampanskoye (Soviet Champagne)
Does Crimea only produce sparkling wines?
No, still wines made primarily from international varieties and a fortified wine are produced as well
Fortified wine of Crimea
Etalita